This classic Italian appetizer brings the vibrant flavors of summer to your table. Crusty Italian bread is grilled until golden and crisp, then rubbed with fresh garlic for an aromatic kick. The topping is a simple yet perfect mixture of diced ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a generous drizzle of virgin olive oil. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the oil, while the herbs add a fragrant freshness. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a light starter before a main course, this dish is easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the crunchy toast and the juicy topping.
Tomato Bruschetta
Description
This classic Italian appetizer brings the vibrant flavors of summer to your table. Crusty Italian bread is grilled until golden and crisp, then rubbed with fresh garlic for an aromatic kick. The topping is a simple yet perfect mixture of diced ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a generous drizzle of virgin olive oil. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the oil, while the herbs add a fragrant freshness. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a light starter before a main course, this dish is easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the crunchy toast and the juicy topping.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare a charcoal fire or heat a grill/griller, setting the rack about 10 cm from the heat source.
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Slice the Italian bread on the diagonal into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick slices.
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Toast both sides of each bread slice on the grill until golden and crisp.
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Remove the bread from the grill and immediately rub one side of each slice with a peeled garlic clove.
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Drizzle the garlic-rubbed side of each bread slice generously with virgin olive oil.
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Top each slice with the diced tomato and basil mixture.
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Sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
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Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 337.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21.6g34%
- Saturated Fat 7.2g36%
- Cholesterol 53.3mg18%
- Sodium 795.6mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.3g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.7g
- Protein 28.4g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Bread Thickness: The thickness of the bread is important. We suggest 1/2" to 3/4" thick so that the bread will be toasted on the outside but remain moist and chewy on the inside. An average loaf should yield about 12 slices.
Garlic Rubbing: The texture of the toasted bread acts like sandpaper on the garlic, wearing it down so that its pulp and juice fill the pores of the bread. The more garlic you rub into the bread, the stronger the flavor.
Serving: Bruschetta is best served immediately after assembly to maintain the crunch of the bread and the freshness of the toppings.
