Italian Bruschetta with Tomatoes, Basil and Olive Oil — A Light Mediterranean Appetizer

Bruschetta is one of the most famous appetizers of Italian cuisine — simple, fresh and full of Mediterranean flavor. It comes from central Italy, where “bruscare” means to toast bread over fire. This recipe is prepared in 15 minutes and is ideal as an appetizer for family lunches or as an accompaniment to main dishes.

INGREDIENTS (serves 4):

• 1 loaf of rustic country bread or baguette (about 300 g), cut into 1.5 cm slices
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes (about 400 g)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• A bunch of fresh basil (about 10 g)
• 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• (Optional) a little balsamic vinegar

PREPARATION:

1. Cut the tomatoes into small cubes, remove the seeds if you like, and place them in a bowl.
2. Cut the basil into thin strips, add it to the tomatoes along with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
3. Heat the oven to 200°C (or a grill pan). Lightly brush the bread slices with olive oil and bake until golden and crunchy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. While the bread is still warm, rub each slice with a halved clove of garlic.
5. Spread the tomato mixture over the bread slices, drizzle with the remaining olive oil and decorate with basil leaves. Serve immediately.

TIME: Preparation 10 minutes, baking 5 minutes. SERVINGS: 4 (about 8-10 slices).