Description
This Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze recipe is a fresh, vibrant appetizer perfect for entertaining or a light snack. It combines juicy diced tomatoes, aromatic basil, and garlic atop toasted Italian bread slices, finished with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic reduction. The recipe highlights the textures and flavors of fresh ingredients complemented by the warm, crispy bread and luscious glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- 1 cup tomatoes, pitted and diced (about 4 roma tomatoes)
- ¼ cup red onion, diced (about ¼ red onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Assembling
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ loaf of Italian bread or French baguette, sliced into ½ inch slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Make the tomato topping: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss all the ingredients together until evenly mixed. Refrigerate the mixture for one hour to allow the flavors to meld, though you may serve it immediately if short on time.
- Make the balsamic glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vinegar is reduced by half and thickened. Remove from heat and transfer to a small bowl to cool; the glaze will thicken further as it cools and should have a glossy, honey-like consistency.
- Toast the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and garlic powder. Using a brush, coat the top side of each baguette slice with this olive oil and garlic mixture. Arrange the slices on a quarter-sheet baking pan and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes or until they turn light golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the bruschetta: Place a spoonful of the chilled tomato mixture on each toasted bread slice. Drizzle the prepared balsamic glaze over the tomatoes on each slice. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crisp bread and fresh, flavorful topping.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the tomato mixture to chill for at least an hour before assembling.
- If balsamic vinegar is not available, you can substitute with balsamic reduction glaze purchased from stores.
- The bread can also be toasted on a grill or in a skillet if an oven is not accessible.
- To make this recipe vegan and vegetarian, ensure the bread contains no animal products.
- Store any leftover tomato topping separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, assembled bruschetta is best served fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
