Bruschetta with fresh basil is one of those simple recipes that always impresses. With just a few fresh ingredients and toasted baguette slices, this Italian classic is perfect as a light appetizer or an easy summer snack.
It is truly a wonderful appetizer! I like it with Italian meals, like these Italian meatballs with sauce. If you love the tomato and basil flavor combination, another appetizer I strongly recommend is this sundried tomato pesto torte. That's an excellent appetizer to make ahead because it freezes well. If you are looking for another fresh option, you'll love this Greek Seven Layer Dip!
Table of contents
Why I Love This Appetizer
This fresh bruschetta recipe is one of my go-to summer appetizers. It’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients, but it’s full of flavor.
It’s the perfect way to use up ripe garden tomatoes and fresh basil from your backyard or local farmer’s market.
The toasted baguette slices add a delicious crunch that balances the juicy tomato basil topping.
You can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time, making it an easy appetizer when you're entertaining or bringing a dish to share.
This classic bruschetta also looks beautiful on a platter, making it a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering.
Ingredients
So many fresh flavors make this an appealing summer appetizer.
A whole baguette or you can also use French bread.
4 ripe Roma tomatoes, seeded coarsely chopped - In the summer, I love using heritage tomatoes in fun colors. But, Romas tend to be available year round.
¼ cup sweet onion, finely chopped. You can substitute other onions thay you may have on hand.
¼ cup basil, chopped, lightly packed and chopped.
1 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced. If you use 2 cloves, it will be delightfully garlicky!
1 Tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1
After the tomatoes have been seeded and chopped, let them sit for about 5 minutes and drain the liquid.
Step 2
Mix in onion, basil, garlic and olive oil and salt to taste.
Step 3
Lightly toast baguette slices then add some of the Bruschetta mixture onto sliced bread.
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Enjoy, and savor this! I had some with my spaghetti one evening then it was my lunch for the next two. I just couldn't get enough. Just cut your bread thinner if you are having two or three pieces as a meal. Then you don't eat too much bread :).
Enjoy your bruschetta! It is so good!
Serving Tip
If you love balsalmic, drizzle just a bit on the bruschetta just before serving!
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
- The tomato mixture is best the same day, but you can prep it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
- Store the topping mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Toasted baguette slices can be stored in a zip bag once cooled completely.
- Do not assemble until just before serving or the bread will become soggy.
FAQs
A French baguette or Italian loaf works well – anything with a firm structure. Slice ½-inch thick and toast it.
Yes! Toasting keeps the bread from getting soggy and gives that perfect crunch.
Yes – try variations with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or even fruit-based versions.
Yes! Cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully and give a burst of sweetness. Just chop them small enough to stay on the toast
More Delicious Appetizers
Bruschetta Printable
Bruschetta with Fresh Basil
Ingredients
- 4 tomatoes Roma, ripe and coarsely chopped. In the summer I love heritage tomatoes from the garden.
- ¼ cup sweet onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup basil lightly packed and chopped
- 1 - 2 clove garlic finely minced
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 12-15 slices baguette or French bread
Instructions
- Slice Baguette into 12-15 pieces, about ½ inch thick. Toast slices in a 400ºF oven for 5-7 minutes until starting to crisp and become golden.
- After the tomatoes seeded and have been chopped, let them sit for about 5 minutes and drain the liquid.
- In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Add parmesan if using. Stir gently to combine.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted baguette slice right before serving to prevent sogginess. Serve immediately. Garnish with additional basil if desired.
Notes
Nutrition (I am not a nutritionist. These are estimates only)
If you want to pin this post to Pinterest, just use the picture below!
Anita Holland
This looks so delicious and easy to make.
Kim Purvis
Great fresh summer appetizer!
Linda Johnston
you are right! So easy and delish@
Michelle Leslie
I love a freshly made bruschetta and this one ticks all of the boxes when it comes to yumminess. Thanks so much Susan
bailey598
super site 🙂