Description
A simple and delicious appetizer featuring toasted baguette topped with a fresh tomato and basil mix, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 French baguette (about 12–16 slices)
- 4 ripe medium tomatoes (about 2 cups diced)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided (2 Tbsp for tomatoes, 1 Tbsp for brushing bread)
- 2 cloves garlic, 1 minced (for topping), 1 halved (for rubbing toast)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan substitute
- Optional substitution: gluten-free baguette or sturdy gluten-free bread
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato topping: core and dice the tomatoes; place in a medium bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, sliced basil, balsamic vinegar (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let sit 10 minutes to marry flavors.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch slices. Brush each slice lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Toast the bread: arrange slices on a baking sheet and toast 6–8 minutes in the oven, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Or, cook in a skillet 2–3 minutes per side until toasted.
- Rub each toasted slice with the cut side of the halved garlic clove for an aromatic finish.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted slices just before serving (to keep the bread crisp). If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
To avoid soggy crostini, drain excess tomato juice before spooning onto the toast or toast the bread a touch extra crisp. You can prepare the tomato topping up to 6 hours ahead; refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg