Bruschetta topped with a balsamic glaze is a delicious and popular appetizer. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- Baguette or Italian bread
- Ripe tomatoes (about 4-5 medium-sized)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Garlic cloves (2-3 cloves)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette or Italian bread into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
- Toast the Bread:
- Brush each bread slice lightly with olive oil.
- Toast the bread slices in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp. You can also toast them on a grill for added flavor.
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
- Dice the ripe tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the garlic cloves.
- Chiffonade the fresh basil leaves (stack the leaves, roll them into a tight cylinder, and thinly slice).
- Assemble the Bruschetta:
- In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped garlic, and chiffonaded basil.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Top the Toasted Bread:
- Once the bread slices are toasted, let them cool slightly.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
- Add Balsamic Glaze:
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the bruschetta just before serving. You can either buy a balsamic glaze from the store or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens.
- Serve:
- Arrange the bruschetta on a serving platter and serve immediately.
This bruschetta with balsamic glaze is a delightful combination of flavors – the freshness of tomatoes and basil, the crunch of the toasted bread, and the sweet tanginess of the balsamic glaze. It makes for a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or a light snack. Enjoy!
