Imagine transforming a simple loaf of bread into a culinary masterpiece that transports you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany! This Grilled Italian Bread with Tomatoes and Basil isn't just a recipe—it's a quick, sensational journey of flavors that will revolutionize your appetizer game in just 15 minutes. With crispy, golden-grilled bread, juicy ripe tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, this dish promises to be your new summer obsession that will have everyone asking, "How did you make this?"
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Ensure grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Italian bread diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Choose a rustic, crusty bread like ciabatta or pugliese for best results.
- Wash and dice ripe tomatoes into small, uniform cubes. For best flavor, use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes.
- Finely mince fresh garlic cloves and chop fresh basil leaves, keeping them separate.
- Brush each bread slice generously with olive oil on both sides. Use extra virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
- Place bread slices directly on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy grill marks appear.
- Remove grilled bread and immediately rub each slice lightly with a raw garlic clove for extra aromatic flavor.
- Top grilled bread with diced tomatoes, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired. Serve immediately while bread is warm and crisp.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Select a rustic, crusty Italian bread like ciabatta or pugliese with a sturdy texture that can withstand grilling.
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat (around 400°F) for perfect golden-brown grill marks.
- Olive Oil Matters: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for brushing and drizzling to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use ripe, vine-ripened tomatoes and freshly picked basil for maximum flavor intensity.
- Garlic Technique: Lightly rubbing grilled bread with a raw garlic clove adds a subtle, aromatic punch without overwhelming the dish.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your bruschetta while the bread is still warm and crisp for the best texture and taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
