on Jun 02, 2014, Updated Nov 29, 2023 21 Comments Fresh bruschetta has a combination of bright, amazing flavors that make this such a favorite snack and appetizer. The drizzle of balsamic glaze takes it over the top in my opinion. The freshness of the basil and tomatoes melds perfectly with the rustic toasted bread with a hint of garlic. And this tasty recipe only takes minutes to make!
What is Bruschetta?
Bruschetta (pronounced broo·skeh·tuh) is an appetizer, or antipasto, from Italy made of grilled or toasted bread topped with olive oil, garlic, and salt. Some variations include tomatoes, vegetables, meats, or cheese. Many believe that the bruschetta is the topping; however, the bruschetta is simply the grilled bread.
Ingredients for Bruschetta
The complete list of ingredients is given in detail in the recipe, but here are some highlights that go into making this Bruschetta so delicious!
The Bread
Use good quality rustic bread such as ciabatta, sourdough, or a baguette. Drizzle it with olive oil before toasting for a tasty, crusty exterior.
Tomatoes and Basil
You can use whatever fresh tomatoes you choose – from ripe heirloom or Roma tomatoes to grape or cherry tomatoes. Peel and deseed large tomatoes, but this isn’t necessary when using cherry tomatoes. The fresh basil is one of my favorite parts of this bruschetta. Stack the fresh basil leaves, then roll the stack of leaves into a tight roll. Then, cut the roll into thin strips or a basil chiffonade.
Balsamic Glaze
While I say this is optional in my recipe, I really hope you use it! It adds so much flavor to the bruschetta and marries the tomatoes and basil together perfectly! Use my homemade balsamic glaze recipe or a good quality glaze from the store.
Recipe Variations
Optionally, you can also include cheese. Some favorites are ricotta spread as a bottom layer before adding the tomato-basil topping, freshly grated parmesan sprinkled on top, and even feta crumbled into the tomato-basil mixture.
How to Make Bruschetta
How to Serve Bruschetta
Bruschetta is fabulous served on trays as an appetizer. It makes a flavorful vegetarian dish that is a crowd favorite. I also love to serve it as a side instead of garlic bread with spaghetti, pasta fagioli, or minestrone. This recipe can easily be halved or multiplied depending on the number you plan to serve.
Make Ahead Tips
You can toast the bread beforehand and add the topping and balsamic drizzle right before serving. Furthermore, you can serve the tomato bruschetta topping on the side to allow guests to assemble their own. If you tried this Bruschetta Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks for visiting! Enjoy!Robyn xo Originally published 2014.
