Easy Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

About Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer (AKA antipasto) that's popular around the world. If you've ever had it you surely love it; if you haven't tried it yet, prepare to fall in love.

Whether or not you're already a fan, you probably have heard bruschetta pronounced broo-shet-ta... However, to start today off with a fun fact, you'll be interested to know the way to pronounce the word is actually is broo-SKet-tuh.

Now that I've clarified pronunciation, let's talk about how to make the best tomato bruschetta recipe! This easy 20 minute recipe features toasted slices of baguette rubbed with garlic cloves, and topped with any number of savory ingredients.

Here I use a traditional combination of diced Roma tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and just a few key spices. The mixture is fresh and bright, and pairs great with the crunchy bread.

Lovely assembled bruschetta are rustic with a touch of refinement. The balance of refreshing and savory flavors make them perfect for brunch, dinner party appetizers, or snacks for any occasion!

Why we love this tomato bruschetta recipe?

We love this dish any time of the year, but especially during warmer months. It is a wonderful way to enjoy summer tomatoes, and requires very little effort.

Besides slicing a few veggies and quickly toasting the baguette, there's no need to keep a hot oven going or labor over the stove... The only "cooking" takes less than 10 minutes!

Another reason I can't get enough of this simple bruschetta recipe is that it's great to customize. Fresh Roma tomato and basil are classic, but you can easily swap with other tomatoes and other seasonal toppings.

Bruschetta Ingredients

• Tomatoes: I use seasonal Roma tomatoes. But you can use other ripe tomatoes that are available.
• Olive Oil: Choose a high quality EVOO for the best consistency and flavor. Because we aren't cooking the oil you'll really be able to taste it, so don't skimp here!
• Basil: Either baby or full size fresh basil is fine since we'll be slicing them into thin ribbons.
• Garlic: You'll rub the cut side of halved garlic cloves directly onto the toasted baguette slices. This adds delicious flavor to the bread, but without the super strong taste of garlic overpowering the other ingredients.
• Spices: We use a simple combination of dried oregano, salt, and pepper in this Italian tomato bruschetta recipe.
• Bread Slices: Look for a freshly baked baguette that is light and crisp on the outside. French bread is great for entertaining as it typically comes in a large, slender loaf.

1. Preheat the oven at 400℉.

2. To make tomato mixture, add the following ingredients in a large bowl:

• 6 diced roma tomatoes
•  2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 
•  ¼ cup fresh basil chiffonade (thin ribbons)
•  ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
•  ½ - ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

3. Mix everything gently, taking care not to mash or break the diced tomatoes too much. Cover and let it sit for 4-5 minutes, this will help tomatoes to soak all the flavors.

4. To toast the bread, arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on baking sheet pan and brush with the remaining extra virgin olive oil on both sides.

5. Now, bake the toasts for 5-6 minutes and then broil for 1-2 minutes on high or until the edges are golden brown. Alternatively, you can also grill the bread slices until crisp and golden marks on both the sides.

I like my toast nice golden brown and crisp, you can toast it as you like.

6. Rub halved garlic on one side of the toasts.

7. Spoon the tomato basil mixture on the toasted slices, place on the platter and serve delicious bruschetta immediately. You can sprinkle some grated parmesan and / or drizzle them with balsamic glaze or vinegar.

How to serve bruschetta?

These not-too-fancy toasts are always a hit as pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres or party snacks. Serve bruschetta assembled on plates so that guests can easily grab a piece with one hand.

For a more casual family-style appetizer or snack, spread toasted bread slices on a platter and serve with the topping in bowl.

Pair bruschetta with classic Italian dishes like simple pasta with sauce. Or try our favorite easy one-pot Vegetable Pasta, Tomato Spinach Pasta, and Creamy Avocado Pasta recipes.

Expert tips

• Use good quality fresh ripe tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are deep red, and firm but with a bit of give when gently squeezed.
• Salt tomatoes after dicing. This helps to absorb excess moisture, and seasons the tomato.
• Too much liquid? After combining, drain and let the tomato mixture sit in a colander for 4-5 minutes.
• Wait to top. Spoon on the tomato mixture and drizzle on any toppings right before serving. We don't want soggy bread!

Bruschetta Toppings

This recipe for Bruschetta is great to customize! Here are a few suggestions for other tasty toppings you might consider...

• Pesto: Before adding other toppings, smear a generous teaspoon of basil pesto onto the toasted bread.
• Cheese: Lay pieces of fresh shaved parmesan, thin slice of fresh mozzarella, or slice of burrata cheese on top of the bread before adding the tomato mixture. Add shredded parmesan cheese on top of the tomatoes before serving. Smear ricotta or other cheese spread onto the bread under the tomato. Or stir crumbled feta or goat cheese into the tomato mixture.
• Dressing: Lightly drizzle balsamic vinegar or glaze over the bruschetta just before serving.
• Veggies: Along with the diced tomatoes try mixing in chopped onions, spinach, or fresh or roasted red peppers.