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Festive Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe

4.7 from 107 reviews

This Festive Bruschetta recipe combines juicy diced Roma tomatoes with fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, all served atop crispy toasted baguette slices finished with shredded Parmesan cheese. It’s a vibrant, easy-to-make appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tomato Bruschetta

  • 6 Roma tomatoes (1 1/2 lbs), diced
  • 1/3 cup basil leaves, chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, divided
  • 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Balsamic glaze (optional)

For the Toasts

  • 1 baguette
  • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Start by dicing the Roma tomatoes into small bite-sized pieces. Chop the basil leaves finely and mince 4 of the garlic cloves. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Gently toss everything together to evenly distribute the flavors. Set aside to allow the mixture to marinate and develop its flavors.
  2. Prepare the Baguette Toasts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush each slice generously with the extra virgin olive oil on both sides. Line the slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese evenly on top of each slice.
  3. Toast the Bread: Place the baking sheet with the prepared baguette slices into the oven. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the bread is golden and crisp. Keep an eye to avoid burning the cheese.
  4. Rub with Garlic: Once toasted, take the remaining garlic clove and gently rub it over the top surface of each baguette toast. This will impart a subtle garlic aroma and flavor without overpowering the tomato topping.
  5. Assemble the Bruschetta: Spoon the prepared tomato mixture generously onto each baguette toast. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top if using, to add a sweet and tangy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm crisp bread with fresh, flavorful topping.

Notes

  • Use ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal.
  • To save time, diced tomatoes and chopped basil can be prepped ahead and refrigerated for up to a day.
  • If you prefer, you can toast the bread in a skillet over medium heat instead of baking.
  • This recipe is best served fresh to keep the bread crispy.

Keywords: Bruschetta, Tomato Bruschetta, Baguette Appetizer, Italian Appetizer, Festive Appetizer, Easy Bruschetta Recipe