TOMATO AND BASIL BRUSCHETTA
Tomato and basil bruschetta is a timeless Italian classic that’s as vibrant in flavour as it is in appearance. This simple recipe combines juicy, chopped tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and a drizzle of rich olive oil, all served on a slice of toasted whole-grain bread. The contrast of crisp toast with the fresh and herby Topping makes it the perfect light starter or mid-day snack. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, this dish relies on the quality of its ingredients to shine. Ideal for summer gatherings, alfresco dinners or healthy appetisers, it’s naturally vegan, low in fat and a good source of fibre. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this bruschetta is proof that fresh, uncomplicated ingredients are often the most satisfying. Enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Italian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Prepared in Advance, No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Picnic, Cocktail Party, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Backyard BBQ, Easter, Party
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, Low Fat, Healthy, High Fibre, Low/ No Sugar, Organic
DISH TYPE
Condiment / Spread
INGREDIENTS
The preparation of Tomato and Basil Bruschetta involves the following ingredients:
- 1 slice whole-grain bread, toasted
- ½ tomato, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 130.1 kcal
- Fat: 5.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.9 g
- Carbohydrate: 15.4 g
- Sugar: 3.5 g
- Sodium: 228.7 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4.6 g
- Calcium: 42.5 mg
- Potassium: 225.2 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
PREPARATION
- Toast Bread: Toast the slice of whole-grain bread until golden and crisp.
- Prepare Tomato: Chop the tomato into small pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
- Add Basil: Finely chop the fresh basil and add to the tomato.
- Drizzle Oil: Pour olive oil over the tomato and basil mixture.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Spoon the mixture onto the toasted bread and serve immediately.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
2 minutes
TIPS
These tips can help you make a better Tomato and Basil Bruschetta:
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Choose firm but juicy tomatoes for the best texture and flavour.
- Toast Well: A crisp base helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy under the Topping.
- Drain Tomato Juice: Let chopped tomatoes sit in a sieve briefly if they’re overly juicy.
- Serve Quickly: Assemble just before serving to maintain the toast’s crispness.
- Rustic Option: Rub toast with a cut clove of garlic for an authentic bruschetta twist.
VARIATIONS
- Add Garlic: Rub the toast with garlic before adding the Topping for deeper flavour.
- Include Balsamic: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze to the tomato mix.
- Go Spicy: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.
- Vegan Cheese Topping: Crumble a little almond-based feta for a creamy contrast.
- Multi-Tomato Mix: Combine cherry, yellow, and heirloom tomatoes for colour and variety.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Make Topping Ahead: The tomato mixture can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and stored refrigerated.
- Do Not Assemble Early: Assemble just before serving to keep toast crisp.
- Refrigeration: Leftover Topping can be stored for up to 1 day in the fridge, although it’s best when fresh.
- Not Suitable for Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as tomatoes and toast do not retain their texture well after thawing.