Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Toasted baguette slices are topped just before serving with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a bright balsamic-olive oil dressing.

Prep: 15 min · Cook: 8 min · Yield: 6 · Method: Oven

Ingredients

• 1 loaf baguette
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking instructions

1. Heat the oven to 425°F. Slice the baguette on a diagonal into 24 slices, about 1/2 inch thick, and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. (about 5 min) — 425°F
2. Brush the bread slices with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Toast for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until crisp and lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly. (about 8 min) — 425°F
3. Core and finely dice the tomatoes. Thinly slice the basil. Mince 1 garlic clove and combine the tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let stand for 5 minutes, then stir. (about 7 min)
4. Rub the remaining garlic clove over the warm toast slices. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the bread just before serving, allowing excess liquid to drain slightly so the toasts stay crisp. (about 2 min)