What is traditional Italian bruschetta?

It’s a toasted bread appetizer topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of vinegar. The key to a good classic Italian bruschetta recipe is balancing crisp bread with juicy toppings.

What is the secret to good bruschetta?

Use ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and quality olive oil. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to blend flavors before topping warm, garlic-rubbed bread.

What are the traditional toppings on bruschetta?

Tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and basil. Some variations include balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.

What are the ingredients in a typical bruschetta?

A basic classic Italian bruschetta recipe includes chopped Roma tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and toasted Italian bread.

Classic Italian Bruschetta Recipe – 3-Step Fresh & Flavorful

Name: Classic Italian Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Roma tomatoes (about 6–8 ripe tomatoes); 1 loaf crusty Italian bread (like ciabatta or baguette); 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Description

This classic Italian bruschetta recipe features juicy Roma tomatoes, garlic, and basil on warm, toasted bread. Fresh, bold, and ready in minutes—perfect for gatherings or light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds Roma tomatoes (about 6–8 ripe tomatoes)

1 loaf crusty Italian bread (like ciabatta or baguette)

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

3–4 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Dice Roma tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add garlic, basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently and let sit for 10 minutes.

2. Slice bread into 1/2-inch slices and brush with olive oil. Grill or broil until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.

3. Rub each toasted slice with a peeled garlic clove while still warm.

4. Top each slice with the tomato mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Notes

Use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter twist.

Toast the bread just before serving to keep it crisp.

Top with mozzarella or prosciutto for extra richness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 190
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: classic Italian bruschetta recipe, tomato basil toast, easy bruschetta