Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil
Introduction
If you are looking for a light and refreshing appetizer that highlights the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, then bruschetta is the way to go. Bruschetta is a traditional Italian dish that consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. It's the perfect way to celebrate summer and all the fresh produce that comes with it!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 3 large cloves of garlic, peeled
- 5 ripe plum tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 2: Slice the bread and grill it
Slice the French or Italian bread into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush each slice with olive oil and grill for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until lightly toasted and grill marks appear.
Step 3: Prepare the tomato mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Rub the bread with garlic
Take a peeled garlic clove and rub it over the grilled bread slices while they are still warm. The bread will absorb the garlic flavor.
Step 5: Add the tomato mixture
Spoon a generous amount of the tomato mixture onto each slice of bread, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter and enjoy! Bruschetta is best eaten fresh, so serve immediately.
Variations
Bruschetta is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:
- Burrata Bruschetta: Instead of using diced tomatoes, top the grilled bread with creamy burrata cheese and sliced cherry tomatoes. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Pesto Bruschetta: Spread a layer of basil pesto onto the grilled bread before adding the tomato mixture.
- Goat Cheese Bruschetta: Spread a layer of soft goat cheese onto the grilled bread and top with the tomato mixture.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure your tomatoes are ripe and flavorful for the best-tasting bruschetta.
- You can make the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can toast the bread in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.
- If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
- Bruschetta is a great way to use up stale bread. Just be sure to toast it well to give it some crunch.
Conclusion
Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil is a simple and delicious appetizer that everyone will love. It's a great way to showcase the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer produce. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some of the variations, you're sure to impress your guests with this easy and elegant dish.