Tomato Basil Bruschetta (Printable Version)

# What You Need:

→ Tomato Topping

01 - 4 ripe medium tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
02 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Bread

07 - 1 crusty baguette, cut into 8 diagonal slices
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Garlic

09 - 2 large garlic cloves, peeled

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.
02 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
03 - Toast baguette slices in the oven for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
04 - Remove toasted bread from the oven. While still warm, rub one side of each slice with the cut side of a garlic clove.
05 - Spoon the marinated tomato mixture generously onto each slice just before serving.
06 - Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few drops of balsamic glaze before serving.
02 - Use heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful presentation.
03 - Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free bread.
04 - Serve with chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.