An Easy Italian Appetizer – Bruschetta

Balsamic Bruschetta

When summertime gives you perfectly ripe and juicy tomatoes, one of the best ways to enjoy them is with an Italian Appetizer or Antipasti.

The best bread for Bruschetta has a sturdy crust and firm enough to hold the topping. Choose a loaf of Italian bread, such as ciabatta, for a more traditional bruschetta.

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
8 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 Oz. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon good quality balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Step 1 – Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Brush bread slices on both sides lightly with 1 tablespoon oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 5 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.

Step 2 – Meanwhile, toss together tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic in a bowl. Mix in balsamic vinegar, 2 teaspoons olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper.

Step 3 – Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread slices and serve immediately.