Tomato Basil Bruschetta (Print Version)

Marinated tomato and basil topping served on warm toasted baguette slices for a refreshing appetizer.

# Ingredients:

→ Tomato Topping

01 - 4 ripe medium tomatoes, diced (approximately 300 grams)
02 - 60 millilitres fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
05 - 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 0.25 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:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to mix and allow to marinate at room temperature for a minimum of 10 minutes.
02 - Preheat oven to 200°C. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
03 - Bake the baguette slices for 5 to 7 minutes, turning once midway, until both sides are golden and crisp.
04 - Remove toasted bread from the oven. While still warm, rub the cut side of a garlic clove over one side of each slice to impart flavor.
05 - Spoon the marinated tomato mixture generously over each toasted baguette slice immediately before serving.
06 - Serve at once while the bread remains crisp and the topping is fresh.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced taste, garnish with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
02 - Heirloom tomatoes provide a more colorful and aromatic topping.
03 - Gluten-free bread may be substituted for a gluten-free version.
04 - Pairs well with a chilled light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.