Classic Italian Bruschetta Recipe

Ingredients

6 ripe tomatoes (plum tomatoes are best)
2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
1 bunch of fresh basil, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
1 loaf of Italian bread or French baguette
2 cloves of garlic for rubbing on the bread
Extra olive oil for brushing on the bread

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven on broiler setting.
Slice the loaf of bread, on the bias, into 3/4-inch slices.
Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and brush one side with olive oil.
Place into the oven and broil until lightly browned.
While the bread is in the oven, dice the tomatoes and put them into a large bowl.
Peel and finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and add to the tomatoes.
Add the chopped basil, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl and mix well.
Once the bread is ready, remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
Rub each slice of bread with the remaining garlic and then spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice.
Serve immediately, to keep the bread from becoming soggy.

Tools for making

Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the bread and dicing tomatoes.
Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the tomato mixture.
Baking sheet - A flat sheet pan for broiling the bread slices.
Brush - A brush for applying olive oil to the bread slices.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of bread such as sourdough or ciabatta for a variation in flavor.
Add a spread of goat cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese on the bread before adding the tomato mixture.
Include additional toppings like sliced fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, or grilled vegetables.
Replace the basil with other fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or cilantro.
Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of sweetness or heat.
For a twist, substitute the tomatoes with diced strawberries or peaches for a fruity bruschetta.
Make it a meat-free option by omitting the garlic and topping the bread with a mixture of marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and olives.
Experiment with different types of vinegar such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
For a richer version, melt some mozzarella cheese on top of the bruschetta under the broiler.
Try grilling the bread instead of broiling it for a smoky flavor.

Recipe overview

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that is simple, fresh, and perfect for any season. It's a great way to use up leftover summer tomatoes, but it's also delicious with tomatoes from the store. This recipe will guide you through the process of making classic tomato and basil bruschetta. Expect to use quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and crusty French baguette or Italian bread. These are combined to create a tasty and refreshing appetizer or side dish. The process involves preparing a fresh tomato-basil topping, toasting the bread under the broiler, and then spooning the topping onto the toasted bread. This recipe is quite easy to make and doesn’t require any special kitchen tools. It's also very quick, so you can whip up a batch in no time. Enjoy these as a start to an Italian dinner, alongside a fresh salad, or as a delicious snack any time of the day!

Common questions

Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes, but plum tomatoes are recommended for their firmness and rich flavor.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
It is best to use fresh basil for its vibrant flavor, but if you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. However, adjust the quantity according to taste as dried basil is more concentrated.
Can I use regular vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic vinegar adds a unique sweet and tangy flavor, but if you don't have it, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives.
Can I make the tomato mixture ahead of time?
It is best to make the tomato mixture just before serving to maintain its freshness and prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Can I toast the bread in a toaster instead of broiling in the oven?
Broiling in the oven gives the bread a nice crispy texture, but if you don't have an oven or prefer to use a toaster, you can toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
Can I add other ingredients to the tomato mixture?
Absolutely! Bruschetta is a versatile dish, and you can add ingredients such as diced onions, mozzarella cheese, or even olives to customize the flavor according to your preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - Use a cutting board to chop the tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Chef's knife - A sharp chef's knife is essential for cutting the tomatoes and basil with precision.
Mixing bowl - Use a mixing bowl to combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and other ingredients.
Baking sheet - Use a baking sheet to toast the bread slices in the oven.
Basting brush - A basting brush is helpful for brushing olive oil onto the bread slices.
Serving platter - Transfer the prepared bruschetta to a serving platter for presentation.
Serving spoon - A serving spoon helps scoop the tomato mixture onto each bread slice.

Origin stories

Originating from Italy, bruschetta is a classic antipasto dish that dates back to ancient Rome. Farmers would toast their bread on a brustolina grill, rub it with garlic, drizzle it with olive oil, and then top with tomatoes and spices. The word "bruschetta" itself comes from the Italian verb "bruscare", which means "to roast over coals". What's interesting is that the dish was originally a way for olive oil producers to tastefully sample their freshly-pressed oil. It has since evolved into a versatile appetizer, with countless variations, yet the traditional tomato and basil bruschetta remains a beloved classic worldwide.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.