Perfect Tomato Bruschetta (Printer-Friendly)
Juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic-rubbed grilled bread create a fresh, flavorful summer starter.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Bread
01 -
6 slices rustic Italian or French bread (about 1/2 inch thick)
02 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for brushing bread)
03 -
1 large garlic clove, peeled
→ Tomato Topping
04 -
4 medium ripe tomatoes, finely chopped (approx. 2 cups)
05 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
06 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
08 -
8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
09 -
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into small pieces (optional)
# Steps to Make This:
01 -
Combine chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium bowl. Mix gently and let rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and juices to release.
02 -
Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. Lightly brush both sides of bread slices with olive oil. Grill each side for 2 to 3 minutes until warm with visible grill marks and slightly crisp.
03 -
Rub peeled garlic clove over one side of each warm bread slice using 2 to 3 gentle strokes to impart a mellow garlic flavor.
04 -
Stir tomato mixture again and adjust seasoning as needed. Spoon generous amounts over grilled bread, ensuring some tomato juices accompany. Top with sliced basil leaves and optional torn mozzarella. Serve immediately while bread is warm.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Use room temperature tomatoes for optimal flavor and aroma.
02 -
Storing tomato topping separately from bread prevents sogginess.
03 -
Rubbing warm bread with garlic transforms the taste by infusing subtle pungency.