Easy Bruschetta

Sun ripened tomatoes, fresh garden basil, and sweet garlic combine to bring you summers best in this easy Bruschetta recipe with a flavorful balsamic glaze. This easy appetizer brings out the best of the season in just a few simple steps.  Friends and family just love this scrumptious recipe and have even donated fresh garden tomatoes to the cause.

Fresh summer tomatoes that have been allowed to ripen on the vine are the best.  They are so flavor packed and really transcend this recipe to the next level.  Are you a big fresh garden tomato fan?  This recipe, Tomato Salad, Creamy Cucumber Tomato Salad, and Tomato Pie are just a few of our favorite recipes especially made with sun ripened garden tomatoes.

 

How to make easy Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze

Start by dicing your tomatoes small and placing in a bowl.  Then sprinkle them with a little salt and set them aside for a bit.  Now mince the garlic and chop the basil.  Next drain any tomato juice from the tomatoes and add the garlic, basil and pepper.  Drizzle with the vinegar and olive oil.  Then mix gently to combine and let sit for a bit at room temperature.

Meanwhile slice the baguette on a diagonal in about 1/2 inch slices.  Brush both sides with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven until toasted.  While they are toasting combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small sauce pan over medium heat.  Now bring it to a low boil and simmer for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally.  The vinegar will reduce and the glaze will thicken.  Remove from the heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Now assemble your appetizers by spooning the tomatoes on to the toasted baguette slices.  Place on a serving platter and lightly drizzle with the balsamic glaze.  For best results serve promptly.

Recipe tips and notes for Bruchetta

• Always use the best sun ripened tomatoes you can get your hands on. This particular time I used some beautiful heirloom tomatoes that I bought at the market.
• Fresh garden basil is king here.  Dried basil is just not going to provide enough flavor or aroma to satisfy you.
• Skip the pre-minced garlic.  I like to peel and mince my garlic fresh every time.  It only takes a couple of minutes and it is well worth the effort.
• I love this recipe with either red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar mixed in with the tomatoes.  Both are equally delicious albeit different.
• A simple baguette is the perfect accompaniment however whole grain crackers and crostini also work well.

How to make Bruschetta Toasts

1. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2 inch slices.
2. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil or olive oil that has been infused with garlic.
3. Place on a parchment covered baking sheet.  Bake at 400 degrees for about 5 minutes.  Flip and bake for another 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

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