Tomato & Basil Bruschetta Recipe

Prepare tomatoes

Core and finely dice tomatoes. If tomatoes are very juicy, remove seeds and excess juice by scooping them into a strainer and letting them drain 10 minutes. Transfer diced tomatoes to a medium mixing bowl.

Add finely minced red onion, minced garlic, and sliced basil to the bowl with tomatoes. Mix gently to combine without crushing the tomatoes.

Stir in 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (if using), 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so flavors meld. Keep covered lightly until ready to serve.

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat a grill or broiler. Arrange bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Brush the top side of each bread slice lightly with the 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, using about half the oil first, then reserve the rest for any additional brushing after toasting.

Toast the bread in the preheated oven for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and crisp at the edges. For broiler, watch closely and broil 1–2 minutes per side. Alternatively, grill until char marks appear and bread is crisp.

Remove toasted bread from oven and while still warm, rub the cut side of the halved garlic clove once across the surface of each slice to impart a subtle garlic flavor (use more rubs for stronger garlic). If desired, lightly brush with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt on each slice if using.

Spoon a heaping tablespoon (about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons) of the tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice, allowing any excess liquid to remain in the bowl to prevent soggy bread. Gently press a few tomato pieces into the bread so they adhere.

If using, shave or grate a little Parmesan/Pecorino over each bruschetta and garnish with a whole or torn basil leaf. Serve immediately so bread stays crisp.

Leftover tomato topping can be refrigerated up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving. Toast additional bread just before serving if needed.