Fresh Bruschetta Appetizer Board with Tomato Basil
A quick and easy summer appetizer featuring fresh diced tomatoes, fragrant basil, and olive oil on toasted baguette slices. Perfect for casual gatherings and parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium ripe Roma or vine tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped or torn
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium loaf baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced about ½ inch thick
- Optional extras: shaved Parmesan, balsamic glaze drizzle, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes, then dice them into small, bite-sized pieces (about ¼ inch).
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar if using. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Gently toss to coat and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Cut the baguette into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 375°F oven for 7-10 minutes until golden and crisp, or grill on a grill pan for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Spoon the tomato basil mixture generously onto each toasted bread slice. Add Parmesan shavings or balsamic glaze if desired.
- Arrange bruschetta slices on a wooden board or platter and garnish with extra basil leaves.
- Serve immediately to keep bread crisp. If preparing ahead, refrigerate tomato mixture and toast bread just before serving.
Notes
Drain watery tomatoes before mixing to avoid soggy bread. Toast bread until crunchy but still easy to bite. Let tomato mixture rest for 10 minutes to meld flavors. Assemble just before serving for best texture. Can substitute gluten-free bread or crackers for gluten-free option. Skip cheese for vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 bruschetta p
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 21
- Fiber: 2.5
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: bruschetta, appetizer, tomato basil, summer recipe, easy appetizer, party food, fresh, vegetarian