Description
A classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, bursting with vibrant flavors and delightful textures. Perfect for quick gatherings or elegant starters, this recipe is simple, fresh, and easily customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 rustic Italian baguette or ciabatta, sliced
- 4 ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush bread slices with olive oil and toast for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Combine tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl; toss gently.
- Optionally, rub toasted bread with garlic clove for extra flavor.
- Spoon tomato mixture over toasted bread slices.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use the freshest tomatoes and high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Avoid overloading the bread to maintain crunchiness. Try adding fresh mozzarella or pine nuts for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking/Toasting
- Cuisine: Italian