Tomato Bruschetta with Garlic and Basil

RecipenKitchen Recipe 25 min · Serves 4 · Italian

Why make it Crisp, garlic-rubbed toasted bread topped with juicy marinated tomatoes, basil and olive oil. It takes 20 minutes and works as a light starter or party snack.

You’ll need

Serves 4 500 g ripe firm tomatoes, deseeded and finely diced 3 garlic cloves, 1 finely minced and 2 halved for rubbing 10 fresh basil leaves, torn 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar ½ tsp fine salt, plus a pinch for the tomatoes ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground 8 slices of rustic bread or baguette, about 1.5 cm thick

1 Step 1 of 6 Heat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) and place the rack in the upper third. Have a baking tray ready.

2 Step 2 of 6 Mix the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the vinegar, salt and pepper in a bowl. Leave to sit for 10 minutes so the flavours blend.

3 Step 3 of 6 Arrange the bread slices on the tray in a single layer. Brush or drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the tops.

4 Step 4 of 6 Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, turning the slices over halfway, until the edges are deep golden and the bread feels crisp when tapped.

5 Step 5 of 6 While the toast is still hot, rub the cut side of the halved garlic cloves over the top of each slice. The rough crust will grate the garlic onto the bread. The last step is in the full recipe.

Cook’s tip Deseed the tomatoes and drain off excess liquid so the toast does not turn soggy.

Tomato Bruschetta with Garlic and Basil

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