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A hand is placing a slice of bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs onto a wooden board.

The Simplest Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

Author: Jessica Haggard
Tomato bruschetta is a quick and easy appetizer that brings big, fresh flavors to your table. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy toasted bread, it’s a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Ready in just 30 minutes, this simple recipe is inspired by Olive Garden’s classic bruschetta and is sure to become a favorite for snacks, parties, or family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Snacks and Appetizers
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 127 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven broiler. Slice the tomatoes in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon or knife. Dice the tomato halves into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
  • Add oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh basil, then drizzle with olive oil. Toss everything together until well combined. Cover the bowl and let the topping chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the bread.
  • Slice the Italian loaf into ½-inch thick pieces. Pour the remaining olive oil into a small dish and brush it onto both sides of each slice. Broil the bread on the top rack for about 3 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown. The goal is crispy edges and a soft center.
  • If broiling isn’t your style, you can grill, pan-fry on a griddle, or bake the bread on the center rack at 450 °F. Once toasted, rub both sides of each slice with a garlic clove while the bread is still warm to infuse it with flavor.
  • Arrange the toasted bread slices on a platter and top each one with a generous spoonful of the tomato mixture. Serve right away.

Notes

  • Cut the loaf diagonally to create a larger surface area for the tomato topping. If you’re using a large loaf, slice the pieces in half for easier serving.
  • Instead of chopping with a knife, tear the basil leaves by hand. This helps keep them fresh longer and preserves their vibrant color.
  • When rubbing garlic onto the toasted bread, use a light hand. This ensures the garlic doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
  • Get creative and add your favorite extras! Try minced red onions, diced cucumbers, beans, Greek olives, or cured meats for a fun twist.
  • If your tomatoes are chilled from the fridge, taste and add a pinch of salt to bring out their natural sweetness.
  • This recipe is best served fresh, but you can mix the tomato topping a few hours in advance. Keep it chilled in the fridge and separate from the toast. Just reheat the bread in the oven and add fresh basil to the topping before assembling for the best results.
Serve: Serve tomato bruschetta as a delicious addition to an antipasto platter, charcuterie board, or any party spread. Pair it with a crisp white wine, refreshing cocktails, or enjoy it alongside a light soup or your favorite pasta dish for a well-rounded meal. It’s quick to make, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Store: Place leftover tomato bruschetta in a single layer on a large plate or platter and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the tomatoes can change. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it come to room temperature, then warm it under the broiler or in the oven for 1-2 minutes. If you kept the bread separate, re-crisp it in the air fryer or oven before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 127kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.1gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 195mgPotassium: 13mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 58IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.2mg
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