Description
Garlic bread bruschetta merges Italian classic appetizers with crispy, herb-infused bread. Juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic create a simple yet sophisticated starter perfect for summer gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices Italian bread, ½-inch thick
- 2 cups fresh grape or cherry tomatoes, diced (or 3 to 4 Roma tomatoes, diced)
- ¼ cup fresh basil ribbons
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Bread Preparation Ingredients:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, cut in half
Seasoning and Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Generously brush each bread slice with extra virgin olive oil, positioning the oiled surface facing downward on the prepared baking sheet.
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven and toast bread slices for 8-10 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent excessive browning.
- Carefully extract the golden-brown bread from the oven and flip each slice over.
- Gently rub a fresh garlic clove across the surface of each toasted bread slice, infusing a delicate garlic essence.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine diced ripe tomatoes, finely shredded mozzarella cheese, freshly chopped basil leaves, finely minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar over the tomato mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed, adding a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Distribute the vibrant tomato mixture evenly across the toasted bread slices.
- Finish by elegantly drizzling balsamic glaze over the bruschetta.
- Serve immediately to preserve the crisp texture of the bread and enjoy the fresh, aromatic flavors.
Notes
- Elevate your appetizer game with this quick and flavorful twist on classic bruschetta that transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
- Freshly diced tomatoes burst with summer flavor, creating a vibrant topping that perfectly complements the crispy, garlic-infused bread base.
- Choosing ripe, in-season tomatoes makes a significant difference in the overall taste and texture of this delightful dish.
- Drizzling balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy note that balances the savory garlic and fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the bread’s satisfying crunch and prevent sogginess from the tomato mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: <5mg