Easy Bruschetta Recipe

If you love tomatoes, you’ll LOVE bruschetta. This bruschetta recipe features crunchy toasted baguette slices and a tantalizing combination of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil; this is a timeless culinary delight that everyone should experience. And, with my simple chef trick, you get even more flavor in this super easy Bruschetta recipe.

What is Bruschetta?

Bruschetta (pronounced “broo-sket-ta”) is a traditional Italian appetizer or antipasto. Hailing from Central Italy during the 15th century, it was a dish born out of necessity when olive growers would toast bread to sample their freshly pressed oil. Over time, it evolved, with variations appearing across regions. The most internationally known version features tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, giving us the delightful combination we are about to delve into.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this timeless dish:

• Diced tomatoes: Look for ripe, juicy tomatoes. They form the heart of the bruschetta and offer a succulent sweetness.
• Olive oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil will add a distinct depth of flavor.
• Fresh basil: The aromatic allure of basil brings a sweet, peppery charm. You can substitute with dried basil, but nothing beats the flavor of fresh leaves.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic, finely minced.
• Shallot: Shallots add mild onion flavor without the pungency of raw garlic which can overwhelm the bruschetta recipe.
• Sundried tomatoes: My secret chef ingredients. These bring an intense, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: A touch of these will enhance all the other flavors.
• Baguette slices: These will serve as the crunchy canvas for our bruschetta. Choose a fresh, crusty baguette for the best results.
• Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan or feta adds a salty complexity, making the bruschetta even more delicious.

How to Make The Best Tomato Bruschetta

1. Dice the tomatoes: Use an alligator chopper for small, evenly-sized pieces.
2. Mix the ingredients: Combine the tomatoes with olive oil, basil, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and sundried tomatoes.
3. Let it rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 30-60 minutes so the flavors meld together.
4. Prepare the bread: Toast or grill your baguette slices. For extra flavor, brush with olive oil before toasting or grilling
5. Assemble: Top the toasted bread with a spoonful of bruschetta, sprinkle with cheese, and serve.

What Kind of Tomatoes to Use in Bruschetta

Choosing the right tomato can make a significant difference. For a classic bruschetta, choose ripe, firm, and juicy tomatoes. Cherry or grape tomatoes work well due to their sweetness and firmness. If you’re making this dish in the winter or off-season, consider using Roma tomatoes as they tend to be flavorful all year round.

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Switch up the bread with ciabatta or even sourdough.
• Add other veggies – olives, grilled zucchini or eggplant, or bell peppers can add an extra layer of flavor. Add capers to put a Southern Italian spin on your bruschetta.
• Make sure your bruschetta mixture has enough time for the flavors to come together. About an hour before serving is fine.

Recommended

Make It A Meal

Wondering what to serve with bruschetta? This easy bruschetta recipe is incredibly versatile and can accompany various dishes. It pairs well with a crisp, green salad for a light lunch. You could also serve it alongside a pasta dish or a creamy tortellini soup for a more substantial meal. If you’re hosting a party, why not make it part of an antipasto platter? With some cheese, olives, and prosciutto, you’ll have an impressive spread that will surely wow your guests.

Storage

Store any leftover Bruschetta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. It will be fine after that, but it’ll get watery as the salt leeches the water from the tomatoes. You can just drain off the water and use it.

Step By Step Process

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