Name: Bruschetta Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 loaf of rustic bread (such as French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough); 2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish); 2 cloves garlic, minced (plus more for rubbing the bread); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra tang); Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for topping

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Bruschetta Toast is a simple yet flavorful appetizer or snack that features crispy toasted bread topped with a savory, refreshing mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. This Italian classic is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering, a light lunch, or as a topping for your next charcuterie board. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bruschetta Toast recipe is fresh, vibrant, and easy to make with just a few ingredients. The crunchy, golden toasted bread serves as the perfect base for the juicy, tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil, while the garlic and olive oil add depth and richness. It’s light yet satisfying and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish with pasta or salad. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Bruschetta Toast

Ingredients

1 loaf of rustic bread (such as French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)
2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
2 cloves garlic, minced (plus more for rubbing the bread)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the loaf of bread into about 1-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with a light drizzle of olive oil. Toast the bread in the oven for 6-8 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Make the bruschetta topping: While the bread is toasting, dice the tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add the chopped basil, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Rub the bread with garlic: Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven. While still warm, rub one side of each slice with a clove of garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
Assemble the bruschetta: Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the toasted bread slices, ensuring each piece is topped with the fresh, flavorful mix.
Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of extra olive oil if desired. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving.
Enjoy: Serve immediately as an appetizer, snack, or side dish!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes (for toasting the bread)
Total time: 18 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Bruschetta: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the tomato mixture before serving for a cheesy twist.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top for extra sweetness and tang.
Add protein: Top the bruschetta with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Roasted Veggies: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to the topping for extra flavor.
Vegan option: This recipe is already dairy-free! Just skip the cheese topping for a fully vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bruschetta topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The bread will become soggy if stored, so it’s best to prepare it fresh.
Reheating: To reheat leftover toasted bread, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, then top with fresh bruschetta mixture before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of rustic or hearty bread, such as French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. The key is using bread that will hold up to the toppings without becoming too soggy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the bruschetta topping in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just toast the bread right before serving for the best texture.

Can I add garlic to the topping?

Absolutely! For more garlic flavor, you can mix a little minced garlic into the tomato mixture. You can also rub the bread with garlic before or after toasting for an extra garlic punch.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor for bruschetta, but if you need to use canned tomatoes, make sure to drain them well to prevent excess liquid. You can also use cherry or grape tomatoes when fresh tomatoes are not in season.

Conclusion

This Easy Bruschetta Toast is a light, flavorful, and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and the richness of olive oil, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something fresh and delicious, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds with minimal effort. Enjoy it with, or serve it alongside your favorite Italian dishes for the ultimate meal!