Bruschetta made from our fresh garden tomatoes and basil is absolutely one of my most favorite bites of summer! It could not be easier to make and will be such a welcomed delight for your family and friends.
I like to use a variety of tomatoes because I think it makes for great eye appeal. You’ve known me to say time and again that we eat with our eyes first so why not make it pretty to look at as well as super tasty.
Many recipes tell you to rub a piece of cut garlic on the bread before, after or both and drizzle it with olive oil. I prefer to brush the baguette pieces with garlic-infused olive oil. Making that oil is a cinch, and I keep a supply on had all of the time and use it in a multitude of ways.
I also like this with a layer of goat cheese or ricotta between the bread and the tomatoes. So good. y;all!
Notes
Garlic-infused Olive Oil: In a small saucepan, add one smashed garlic clove per cup of heated olive oil. Cover and allow to cool completely. Strain garlic from oil and store oil in containers in the refrigerator.
Balsamic Vinegar Reduction: Place 2 cups of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat until vinegar is reduced by half. Store in refrigerator.
Ingredients
Tomato mixture
- 2 large tomatoes, diced (variety of colors if available)
- 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 - 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2-1 Tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, slightly chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- pinch of freshly cracked black pepper
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 7-8 fresh basil leaves shredded (or more)
- Balsamic vinegar reduction (see notes)
Bread
- 1 large baguette, sliced ¼" thick on the bias
- Garlic-infused olive oil (see notes)
Instructions
Tomato mixture
- Cut 2 large beefsteak tomatoes into 1/2-inch cubes; place in a sieve or colander to drain.
- Sprinkle tomatoes with thyme and oregano; place in medium glass bowl.
- Add kosher salt and black pepper to tomatoes and stir to combine; add red pepper, if desired.
- If serving immediately, stir in shredded basil. Otherwise, wait until just before serving to shred and add basil.
Bread
- Brush bread slices with garlic-infused olive oil and toast or grill until lightly browned.
- Just before serving top toasts with a large spoonful of tomato mixture and garnish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
