Tomato Balsamic Bruschetta

Balsamic bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that's easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze makes for a flavor-packed topping for crusty bread. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply looking for a quick and delicious snack, this easy recipe is a great way to use up summer tomatoes and ready in less than 30 minutes.

I love homemade appetizers that can easily be made on short notice. I'm talking spicy deviled eggs, french tomato tart, and smoky hummus. And this balsamic bruschetta appetizer is one of my favorite things to make (and eat) during summer.

Make the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve it. It's a colorful and fun finger food that will definitely be a hit at your next summer gathering.

Jump to:

• ⭐️ Why This is the Best Bruschetta Recipe
• 💬 What is Bruschetta?
• 🍅 Ingredient Notes
• 📝 Variations & Substitutions
• 🔪 How to Make Balsamic Bruschetta
• 👩🏼‍🍳 Expert Tips
• 💬 Frequently Asked Questions
• 🍽 Related Recipes
• Tomato Balsamic Bruschetta Recipe

⭐️ Why This is the Best Bruschetta Recipe

• Delicious appetizer that consists of crunchy toast topped with juicy tomatoes, shallots, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and a swoon-worthy balsamic glaze.
• Bruschetta with balsamic glaze is a quick & easy snack that uses just 8 simple ingredients and is ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Healthy and nutritious, high in fiber, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, and can easily be made gluten-free
• Beautiful and colorful party appetizer or snack that looks impressive despite its simplicity
• Homemade bruschetta is the perfect summer appetizer and a great way to use up your garden tomatoes.
• Make-ahead instructions provided

💬 What is Bruschetta?

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that typically consists of toasted bread slices rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, extra-virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

The bread used for bruschetta is usually a rustic loaf with a sturdy crust that can hold the topping, like ciabatta or sourdough. However, many Americans prefer using baguettes, which means they can also be called "mini-bruschetta" (or crostini). Read my post to learn more about the best bread for bruschetta.

In the U.S., bruschetta is typically pronounced as "broo-SKEH-tuh". It can be served as a snack or appetizer, and is often enjoyed in the summertime when tomatoes are in season.

🍅 Ingredient Notes

• Balsamic vinegar - You can either make homemade balsamic glaze using a high-quality balsamic vinegar or use a store-bought version.
• Roma (plum) tomatoes - The variety of tomato doesn't matter so much as the quality of tomatoes that you use. Make sure that they are ripe for the best flavor. Canned (diced) tomatoes will work just fine, but be sure to drain them before using.
• Shallot - Adds a subtle spicy bite; you can also use ¼ of a red onion for similar flavor
• Fresh basil - Nothing screams summertime like fresh basil. There's really no substitute here, so be sure to use fresh basil.
• Garlic - Using fresh garlic (and not jarred garlic) is key to get the best-tasting bruschetta.
• French bread - With so few ingredients, the quality of said ingredients is very important. Treat yourself to a nice baguette from your local bakery, or splurge on the more expensive brand at your local supermarket. It's worth it.

📝 Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-free bruschetta: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version
• Add cheese: For a heartier appetizer or snack, add a dollop of mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

🔪 How to Make Balsamic Bruschetta

Make balsamic glaze:

** If using store-bought balsamic glaze, skip this step. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened into a syrupy texture. Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare tomato mixture:

In a medium bowl, use a large spoon to combine tomatoes, shallot, basil, garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate.

Make the toasts:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Use a pastry brush or small spoon to spread 2 tablespoons of olive oil on both sides of baguette slices. Place slices single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes, until golden and toasted.

Spoon tomato mixture on top of bread slices and place on a serving platter. Drizzle lightly with the glaze, sprinkle with flaky sea salt (if using), and serve immediately.

👩🏼‍🍳 Expert Tips

• Storage: The tomato mixture can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The toasts can be placed in an airtight container and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Make ahead instructions: You can make the tomato mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time; store it in the fridge until ready to serve. The balsamic glaze can be made up to 1 month ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Because this recipe only uses 7 simple ingredients, they should be the best quality for optimal flavor. So that means fresh (and ripe) tomatoes, fresh basil, fresh garlic, a good quality balsamic vinegar, and a nice loaf of crusty bread.
• Drain tomato mixture. If you do make your tomato mixture ahead of time to marinate, you might need to drain the mixture before serving (or serve with a slotted spoon). This will prevent your bread from becoming soggy.
• How to serve bruschetta: For a gathering, pair your balsamic bruschetta with other savory appetizers like imitation crab dip or this 4 ingredient guacamole recipe. Alternatively, serve it with an Italian main dish, like zucchini risotto or summer tortellini salad.
• Serve right after assembling. This will keep your bread nice and crunchy. Another option is to let your guests assemble their own toasts.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

🍽 Related Recipes

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