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Diagonal slices of toasted baguette topped with diced tomatoes and basil (Italian Bruschetta Recipe).

Italian Bruschetta Recipe with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil

This authentic Italian Bruschetta Recipe features toasted diagonal baguette slices topped with a vibrant heap of diced tomatoes, fresh garlic, and basil, finished with a luscious balsamic glaze drizzle for the perfect party appetizer.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 loaf French Baguette Sliced diagonally
  • 1.5 lbs Roma Tomatoes Finely diced (approx. 680g)
  • 3-4 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Basil Chopped (approx. 15g)
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 60ml
  • 2-3 tbsp Balsamic Glaze 30-45ml
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt To taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet or Cast Iron Skillet For toasting bread
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For tomato mixture
  • 1 Serrated Knife For slicing baguette

Method
 

Prepare the Topping
  1. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, half the minced garlic, chopped basil, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
  2. Let the mixture sit for 20 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to develop.
Toast the Bread
  1. Cut the baguette on a diagonal into 1/2-inch slices.
  2. Brush with olive oil and toast under a broiler or in a skillet until edges are golden-brown and charred.
  3. Immediately rub the warm bread with the remaining garlic cloves.
Assembly
  1. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted slices, creating a high heap.
  2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper.

Notes

Use room temperature tomatoes for the best flavor.
Rubbing garlic on the hot toast provides a more subtle, authentic taste than just mixing it in.