Name: Classic Tomato Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh tomatoes, diced; 1 shallot, peeled and finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Splash of balsamic vinegar; 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons thinly sliced basil; 1 tablespoon grated parmigiano reggiano cheese (optional); Salt & pepper to taste; 1 baguette; ½ tablespoon salted butter

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 11 reviews

Few dishes capture the essence of summer as joyfully as Classic Tomato Bruschetta. With its vibrant dice of ripe tomatoes, a fragrant hint of garlic, the gentle crunch of toasted baguette, and just the right sprightly notes from shallots and basil, this Mediterranean favorite is the perfect marriage of color, texture, and bold flavor. Whether you are welcoming friends for a long lunch or looking for a deliciously simple appetizer to steal the spotlight at dinner, Classic Tomato Bruschetta is the kind of dish you’ll want to share with everyone.

Classic Tomato Bruschetta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Classic Tomato Bruschetta truly outstanding is how each ingredient plays a starring role in the dish — from the juiciness of the tomatoes to the golden, butter-kissed slices of baguette. This is a moment to let seasonal produce do the heavy lifting!

Fresh tomatoes (1 pound, diced): Use the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find for juiciness and a burst of color in every bite.
Shallot (1, peeled and finely diced): Brings a gentle sweetness and depth that doesn’t overpower the tomatoes.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a warm, aromatic backbone that builds big Italian flavors.
Splash of balsamic vinegar: Offers just a touch of acidity to brighten the whole mix — a little truly goes a long way here.
Extra-virgin olive oil (1 1/2 tablespoons, divided): The secret to the bruschetta’s silky texture and rich taste, both in the topping and the crunchy bread.
Basil (2 tablespoons, thinly sliced): Fresh basil brings freshness and the unmistakable perfume that makes every bite sing.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (1 tablespoon, grated, optional): For those who want a hint of umami richness — skip it for a dairy-free version.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for coaxing out the natural flavors of the tomatoes and balancing everything nicely.
Baguette (1): The crunchy vehicle for all that tomato goodness — slice it just the right thickness for the perfect bite.
Salted butter (½ tablespoon): Adds buttery, golden edges to every toast (sub olive oil if you’re dairy-free).

How to Make Classic Tomato Bruschetta

Step 1: Make the Tomato Topping

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh diced tomatoes, shallot, and minced garlic. Drizzle in a splash of balsamic vinegar, then add one tablespoon of the extra-virgin olive oil, and toss in the thinly sliced basil. Mix everything gently to ensure each tomato gets a little of that wonderful olive oil and herby magic. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, stir in the freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Finally, taste and add salt and pepper to bring all the flavors forward. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Toast the Baguette Slices

Slice your baguette on a slight diagonal to get pieces about 1/3-inch thick — the perfect size for a satisfying crunch and generous topping! Heat the salted butter and remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Arrange the bread slices in the pan in a single layer; toast until golden on the bottom, flip, and toast the other side until lightly crisped and beautifully colored. Remove the toasts to a plate and repeat if you have more bread.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Right before serving, top each warm baguette slice with a generous spoonful of the tomato mixture. Arrange all the bruschetta on a beautiful serving platter, and if you like, finish with more fresh basil or a sprinkle of cheese for the prettiest presentation. Serve immediately for a truly irresistible Classic Tomato Bruschetta — the contrast between the warm bread and the juicy topping is just unbeatable!

How to Serve Classic Tomato Bruschetta

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the magic of a little garnish! More fresh basil strips, a sprinkle of extra Parmigiano Reggiano, or even a drizzle of your sweetest balsamic glaze just before serving will make your Classic Tomato Bruschetta look as appetizing as it tastes. For a pop of color, scatter some microgreens or edible flowers on top for dinner-party style points.

Side Dishes

While Classic Tomato Bruschetta is a showstopper all on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp arugula salad, a bowl of marinated olives, or even a platter of Italian cured meats and cheeses. Round out the table with light, fresh options that complement the brightness and crunch of your bruschetta.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the platter! Try serving your Classic Tomato Bruschetta as individual bites on a wooden board, or create a DIY bruschetta bar where guests can pile the tomato topping onto the toasts themselves. For cocktail parties, mini baguette crostini topped with the classic mixture make for an irresistible one-bite appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though they tend to disappear fast!), store the tomato mixture and toasted baguette separately in airtight containers. The topping will keep in the fridge for up to two days, but the flavors are at their best within the first 24 hours.

Freezing

Classic Tomato Bruschetta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze, only freeze the bread — slice and toast the baguette, let it cool, then store in a freezer bag for up to a month. The tomato topping does not freeze well due to its high water content, which can make it mushy when thawed.

Reheating

To bring stored toasted bread back to life, simply reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes or until it crisps up again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread rubbery. Always top the bread with the tomato mixture just before serving for the freshest Classic Tomato Bruschetta experience.

FAQs

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?

Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect for Classic Tomato Bruschetta, especially when they’re at their sweetest and most flavorful. Just dice them into small pieces for easy topping.

What’s the best bread to use for bruschetta?

A classic, crusty French baguette is my favorite for making Classic Tomato Bruschetta because it toasts up beautifully and holds the juicy topping without getting soggy. Ciabatta or any rustic Italian loaf will work well too.

How do I make this dairy-free?

It’s easy! Omit the cheese and use extra olive oil in place of butter for toasting the bread. You’ll still get all the bold, fresh flavors that make Classic Tomato Bruschetta so delightful.

Can I prepare the tomato topping in advance?

Definitely. In fact, letting the tomato mixture sit for 30 minutes (or even up to 2 hours) in the fridge lets the flavors meld together, making your Classic Tomato Bruschetta even more flavorful when it’s time to serve.

Is Classic Tomato Bruschetta gluten-free?

Bruschetta itself isn’t gluten-free because of the baguette, but you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free bread or toasted gluten-free crackers to make the dish work for everyone.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that is quick, beautiful, and bursting with bright, sun-soaked flavors, Classic Tomato Bruschetta is calling your name. Give it a try and let every bite remind you how delicious simplicity can be — you just might find it becomes your go-to for every occasion!

Classic Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need