How to Make Italian Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil?

Classic Italian bruschetta: toasted baguette with juicy tomato, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. Perfect for a light, flavourful appetiser!

	Prep Time:	10 minutes
	Cooking Time:	10 minutes
	Servings:	4
	Diet:	Vegetarian
	Allergens:	Gluten
	Kcal per Serving:	150 kcal

Ingredients

4 ripe tomatoes, finely diced (approx. 300g / 10.5 oz)

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (approx. 10g / 0.35 oz)

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (or any high-quality olive oil)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 baguette (or rustic Italian bread), sliced into 1 cm (1/2-inch) slices

1 extra garlic clove, peeled and halved for rubbing the bread

Extra olive oil for drizzling

How Do You Cook It?

Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine. Set aside to let the flavours meld while you prepare the bread.

Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking tray, and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can grill the bread on a barbecue for added smokiness.

Rub the Garlic: Remove the toasted bread from the oven. While still warm, rub each slice with the halved garlic clove for a subtle garlic flavour.

Assemble the Italian Bruschetta: Spoon the tomato mixture generously over each slice of toasted bread, allowing some of the juice to soak into the bread. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired.

Tips & Tricks

Fresh Ingredients: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for maximum flavour. Fresh basil is also key for an authentic taste.

Customise: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomato mix for extra zing, or sprinkle Parmesan on top for added richness.

Timing: Assemble just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a starter or alongside a fresh salad for a light, summery meal. Pairs beautifully with chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Freezing and Reheating

Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh tomatoes and basil lose their texture and flavour when frozen.

Reheating: Toasted bread can be pre-prepared and gently reheated, but assemble the bruschetta fresh for the best taste and texture.