Appetizer: Italy – Bruschetta al Pomodoro (Tomato bruschetta)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 4 min

Additional 15 min

Total 35 min

Ingredients

- 1 loaf (12 oz / 340 g) rustic Italian bread or baguette, sliced 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick (about 12–14 slices)
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 tbsp (15 ml) for brushing bread
- 1 lb (450 g) ripe tomatoes (such as Roma or vine-ripe), seeded and finely diced
- 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tbsp / 18 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, one clove minced for tomato mixture and one whole clove halved for rubbing toast
- 12 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (torn or chiffonade) (about 0.2 oz / 6 g)
- 1/2 tsp (3 g) kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp (5 ml) red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine the diced tomatoes, minced shallot, minced garlic, sliced basil, 3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil, 1/2 tsp (3 g) kosher salt, 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper, and 1 tsp (5 ml) red wine vinegar or lemon juice (if using) in a bowl; stir gently and let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to meld flavors.
2. Meanwhile preheat the broiler or a grill pan on medium-high. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides lightly with 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil, and toast under the broiler or on the grill pan until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes per side—watch closely to avoid burning.
3. Remove toasted bread and, while still warm, rub one cut side of the halved garlic clove over the surface of each slice to impart a gentle garlic aroma.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the garlic-rubbed toasts just before serving, allowing some of the juices but not so much that the bread becomes soggy. Use about 1 to 2 heaping tablespoons per slice depending on size.
5. Garnish each bruschetta with an extra small basil leaf if desired and finish with a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
6. Serve immediately so the toasts remain crisp, and pass any remaining tomato mixture on the side for replenishing.