Perfect Tomato Bruschetta with Parmesan and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
This Bruschetta recipe offers a delightful Italian appetizer featuring fresh diced Roma tomatoes, aromatic basil, and garlic atop toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic-infused olive oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. The tomato topping is marinated to enhance its vibrant flavors, then served with optional balsamic glaze for a sweet tangy finish. Perfect for gatherings or a light snack, this easy-to-make bruschetta balances freshness and savory notes beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Tomato Bruschetta Topping
- 6 Roma tomatoes (1 1/2 lbs, diced)
- 1/3 cup basil leaves (chopped)
- 5 garlic cloves (divided)
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Bruschetta Toasts
- 1 baguette
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Tomato Bruschetta Topping: Core and dice the Roma tomatoes (or use a food chopper). Drain any excess juice from the tomatoes and transfer them to a medium bowl.
- Chop Basil: Stack basil leaves and roll them into a tight tube. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the basil into ribbons and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Prep Garlic: Finely mince all 5 garlic cloves. Mix 1 teaspoon of the minced garlic into 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and set this garlic-infused oil aside. Add the remaining minced garlic directly into the tomato and basil mixture.
- Season Topping: To the tomato mixture, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well. Set aside the mixture to marinate for 30 minutes to develop flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400˚F (200˚C) and position a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Toasts: Cut the baguette into 1/2 inch thick diagonal slices. Arrange the slices evenly on the lined baking sheet.
- Brush Toasts & Add Cheese: Brush both sides of each baguette slice with the garlic-infused olive oil prepared earlier. Sprinkle the tops generously with shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the toasts at 400˚F for 5 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil on high and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a platter. Spoon the marinated tomato topping over the toasts just before serving. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes.
- Marinating the tomato mixture allows flavors to mingle and intensify.
- You can prepare the tomato topping ahead of time and refrigerate it up to a day before serving.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on personal preference.
- Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a sweet tangy contrast that complements the bruschetta.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread.
- Serve immediately after topping to avoid soggy toasts.
