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Classic Tomato Bruschetta with Parmesan Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 139 reviews

This classic Bruschetta recipe features a vibrant tomato topping made with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar, served on crispy, garlic-infused toasted baguette slices with parmesan cheese. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or party snack, the tomato mixture is marinated to enhance flavors and paired with golden toasted bread for a delightful bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Bruschetta Topping

  • 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)

Bruschetta Toasts

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

Instructions

  1. Make the Tomato Bruschetta Topping: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes using a knife or food chopper. Drain any excess juice carefully and transfer the tomatoes to a medium bowl.
  2. Chop Basil: Stack the basil leaves, roll them tightly into a tube shape, then thinly slice them into ribbons using a sharp knife. Add the chopped basil to the bowl with the tomatoes.
  3. Mince Garlic: Finely mince all 5 garlic cloves. Mix 1 teaspoon of the minced garlic into 3 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil and set this garlic-infused oil aside. Add the remaining minced garlic to the bowl with the tomato and basil mixture.
  4. Season Tomato Mixture: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the tomato bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine. Cover and allow the mixture to marinate for 30 minutes to develop flavors.
  5. Prepare the Bruschetta Toasts: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and position a rack in the center. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Brush Toasts with Garlic Oil and Add Cheese: Brush both sides of each baguette slice with the reserved garlic-infused olive oil. Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the bread slices.
  7. Bake and Broil Toasts: Bake the prepared toasts in the oven at 400°F for 5 minutes. Then, switch to broil setting on high and broil the toasts for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Serve: Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a serving platter. Spoon the marinated tomato topping generously over each toast slice. Drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Be sure to drain excess tomato juice before mixing to avoid soggy bruschetta.
  • You can prepare the tomato topping ahead and refrigerate it; just add the toasted bread right before serving.
  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
  • Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a nice sweet tangy finish.
  • Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the baguette for neat and even slices.
  • Watch the bread closely during broiling as it can burn quickly.

Keywords: Bruschetta, Italian appetizer, tomato basil topping, garlic bread, easy appetizer, party snacks