Pin It Crispy baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, served in an elegant diagonal line perfect for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
I love making these Bruschetta Toasts for gatherings because they are quick to prepare and always impress guests with their fresh taste and beautiful arrangement.
Ingredients
- For the Toasts: 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally into 8 pieces (about 1/2-inch thick) , 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- For the Topping: 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced , 1 small garlic clove, minced , 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, finely chopped , 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil , 1/2 tsp sea salt , 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- To Serve: 1 small garlic clove, peeled (for rubbing toast) , Extra basil leaves, for garnish (optional) , Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Step 3:
- Bake for 8 10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Step 4:
- While the toasts bake, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss gently and set aside.
- Step 5:
- Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. While still warm, gently rub one side of each slice with the peeled garlic clove.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toast. Arrange on a platter in a diagonal line for an elegant presentation.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with extra basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying simple, fresh flavors.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. Pair with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Prosecco for the perfect appetizer experience.
Required Tools
Baking sheet , Parchment paper , Small mixing bowl , Bread knife , Pastry brush , Spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) . May contain Sulfites if using balsamic glaze . Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Pin It These Bruschetta Toasts make for a delightful start to any meal, combining simplicity with fresh, vibrant tastes.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for the toasts?
A French baguette sliced diagonally offers the ideal texture and size, allowing for crisp toasts with a sturdy base for toppings.
- → How can I achieve a crispy texture on these toasts?
Brushing both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil and baking them at 400°F until golden ensures a perfect, crunchy texture.
- → Is it important to rub the toasted slices with garlic?
Rubbing warm toasts with a peeled garlic clove infuses a subtle garlic aroma that enhances the overall flavor balance.
- → Can I prepare the tomato topping in advance?
Yes, combining the diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper ahead of time allows flavors to meld, but assemble shortly before serving.
- → What are good optional garnishes for these toasts?
Fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze add color and a tangy sweetness to complement the toast's savory notes.
- → How long do these toasts stay fresh after assembling?
They are best enjoyed immediately to preserve the crispness, as moisture from the topping can soften the bread over time.