Gourmet Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Indulge in a delightful medley of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, all atop crusty Italian bread. This Gourmet Tomato Basil Bruschetta is not only a staple from my culinary journey, inspired by the treasured book 'Cucina Amore,' but it has also become a beloved dish among friends and family. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a light meal, this bruschetta bursts with Mediterranean flavors and freshness. Treat yourself to this simple yet elegant dish that can elevate any gathering!
4
Servings
130
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Roma tomatoes
6 (diced)
Garlic
2 cloves (chopped)
Garlic
2 cloves (peeled)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar
2 1/4 teaspoons
Fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon
Fresh cracked pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Italian bread
8 slices (cut about 1 inch thick)
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
2 tablespoons (grated)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and chopped fresh basil until well combined.
2
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, creating a flavorful vinaigrette.
3
Gently fold in the diced Roma tomatoes. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4
While the tomato mixture rests, toast the bread slices. This can be done using a toaster with wide slots or by placing them under a broiler. If using the broiler, keep a close eye to prevent burning.
5
Once toasted, rub one side of each bread slice with the peeled garlic cloves to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
6
Arrange the toasted bread on a cookie sheet and generously spoon the tomato mixture on top of each slice.
7
For an elevated touch, sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the tomato topping.
8
Broil the bruschetta in the oven until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, watching closely to prevent burning. Alternatively, serve without broiling for a fresh experience.
9
Enjoy immediately while the bruschetta is warm and vibrant. The remaining tomato mixture can be drizzled over antipasto salads for extra flavor!
Nutrition Information
5.5g
Fat
17g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Tomato Basil Bruschetta?
It is a classic Mediterranean appetizer featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic served on toasted crusty Italian bread.
How many calories are in one serving of this bruschetta?
Each serving contains approximately 130 calories.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce 4 servings.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 6 diced Roma tomatoes.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Italian bread, cut into slices about 1 inch thick, is recommended for the best texture.
Is this bruschetta recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it is classified under the vegetable category and tagged as vegetarian.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
What is the secret to the garlic flavor in the bread?
After toasting the bread, rub one side of each slice with peeled garlic cloves to impart a subtle and fresh garlic aroma.
How long should the tomato mixture sit?
Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Can I add cheese to this bruschetta?
Yes, you can sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the tomato topping.
Should I broil the bruschetta?
Broiling is optional; you can broil it until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, or serve it without broiling for a fresher experience.
What type of vinegar is used in the vinaigrette?
The recipe uses 2 1/4 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 5.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 17 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this provide?
Each serving provides 3 grams of protein.
What can I do with leftover tomato mixture?
Any remaining tomato mixture can be drizzled over antipasto salads for extra flavor.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the culinary book 'Cucina Amore'.
How many garlic cloves do I need in total?
You need 4 cloves in total: 2 chopped for the mixture and 2 peeled for rubbing on the bread.
How should I toast the bread slices?
You can toast them in a toaster with wide slots or under a broiler, watching closely to prevent burning.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
How much fresh basil should I use?
Use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
Is this a good party food?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as party food and is perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings.
What is the preparation for the garlic in the vinaigrette?
The garlic for the vinaigrette should be chopped.
How many slices of bread are prepared?
The recipe prepares 8 slices of Italian bread.
What is the first step in making the vinaigrette?
Whisk together the chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and chopped fresh basil.
When should I add the olive oil to the mixture?
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk the other vinaigrette ingredients.
How is the tomato mixture combined?
Gently fold the diced Roma tomatoes into the prepared vinaigrette.
How do I ensure the bread doesn't burn under the broiler?
Keep a close eye on the bread throughout the toasting and broiling process.
Should the bruschetta be served warm?
It is best enjoyed immediately while the toasted bread is warm and the toppings are vibrant.
Is fresh cracked pepper necessary?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of fresh cracked pepper to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.