Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by COOKING WITH SHEREEN on YouTube.

Prep: 41 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 56 min

Cost: $10.28 total, $2.57 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces Ripe Tomatoes (medium, about 2 cups diced)
  • 1 clove Garlic Clove (peeled and grated)
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (good quality)
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (used cold, not for heating)
  • to taste Kosher Salt (season both tomato mix and bread)
  • to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 loaf Italian Bread (Baguette or Ciabatta) (thinly sliced about ½‑inch thick)
  • 1 handful Micro Basil (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Dice Tomatoes

    Core the tomatoes, then dice them into ½‑inch cubes.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Grate Garlic

    Peel the garlic clove and grate it finely using a microplane.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Combine Tomato Mixture

    In the mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, grated garlic, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently to coat.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Marinate

    Let the tomato mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

    Time: PT30M

  5. Slice Bread

    Using the chef’s knife, slice the loaf into ½‑inch thick pieces on a diagonal for a larger surface area.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Season Bread

    Lay the bread slices on a baking sheet. Lightly drizzle each slice with a few drops of extra‑virgin olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Toast Bread

    Toast the seasoned bread in a pre‑heated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  8. Assemble Bruschetta

    Spoon a generous amount of the marinated tomato mixture onto each toasted slice. Drizzle a tiny extra‑virgin olive oil drop over the top if desired, then garnish with micro basil.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
3g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
6g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan

Allergens: Wheat (bread)

Last updated: March 12, 2026

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Bruschetta

Recipe by COOKING WITH SHEREEN

A fresh, easy‑to‑make Italian bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, garlic, balsamic, and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil. Seasoned bread is toasted to perfection and topped with a vibrant tomato mixture and micro basil for a beautiful appetizer.

EasyItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
48m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
58m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.28
Total cost
$2.57
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Marinate the tomato mixture for 30 minutes to develop flavor
  • Season the bread before toasting to ensure flavor penetrates
  • Use extra‑virgin olive oil cold; do not heat it
  • Toast the bread just until golden to keep it crisp

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully when dicing tomatoes and slicing bread
  • Handle the hot baking sheet with oven mitts to avoid burns

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Classic Tomato Bruschetta in Italian cuisine?

A

Bruschetta originated in ancient Rome as a way to test the quality of olive oil by rubbing it on toasted bread. Over centuries it evolved into a popular antipasto, especially in the Tuscan region, where fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs are added to celebrate the bounty of summer harvests.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of bruschetta in Italy?

A

In Tuscany, the classic version uses ripe tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. In the coastal regions, toppings may include anchovies, olives, or roasted peppers. In central Italy, some recipes add a splash of red wine vinegar instead of balsamic.

cultural
Q

How is authentic bruschetta traditionally served in Italy?

A

Authentic bruschetta is served on a rustic wooden board, with the toasted bread brushed lightly with olive oil and topped just before eating. It is often enjoyed with a glass of local red wine as a starter during summer evenings.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is bruschetta traditionally associated with in Italian culture?

A

Bruschetta is a staple at casual gatherings, aperitivo hours, and family picnics. It also appears on holiday tables during Easter and summer festivals when fresh tomatoes are abundant.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with Classic Tomato Bruschetta?

A

Bruschetta pairs beautifully with a light mixed green salad, a bowl of minestrone soup, or as a starter before a main course of pasta al pomodoro, grilled fish, or roasted chicken.

cultural
Q

What makes Classic Tomato Bruschetta special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

The simplicity of high‑quality ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, balsamic, and extra‑virgin olive oil—highlights the Italian philosophy of letting each component shine without heavy sauces or cooking.

cultural
Q

How has bruschetta evolved over time in modern Italian cooking?

A

Modern chefs experiment with toppings such as avocado, smoked salmon, or goat cheese, but the classic tomato‑garlic version remains a beloved staple, often featured in contemporary Italian‑style bistros worldwide.

cultural
Q

What are common misconceptions about bruschetta?

A

Many think bruschetta must be cooked with the toppings; traditionally the topping is added fresh after the bread is toasted, preserving the bright, raw flavors of the tomatoes and garlic.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Classic Tomato Bruschetta?

A

Avoid using over‑ripe or watery tomatoes, over‑seasoning the bread, and heating extra‑virgin olive oil. Also, don’t let the toasted bread sit too long before adding the topping, or it will become soggy.

technical
Q

Why does this bruschetta recipe use extra‑virgin olive oil cold instead of heating it?

A

Heating extra‑virgin olive oil can diminish its delicate flavor and antioxidants. Drizzling it cold preserves its fresh, peppery notes, which complement the raw tomato mixture perfectly.

technical
Q

Can I make Classic Tomato Bruschetta ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, prepare the tomato mixture up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Toast the bread just before serving and assemble immediately to maintain crispness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel COOKING WITH SHEREEN specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel COOKING WITH SHEREEN focuses on simple, home‑cooked recipes from various world cuisines, emphasizing fresh ingredients, step‑by‑step guidance, and practical tips for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel COOKING WITH SHEREEN's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

COOKING WITH SHEREEN emphasizes quick, ingredient‑driven dishes that require minimal equipment, often highlighting seasonal produce and offering clear visual cues, whereas many other Italian channels focus on more elaborate, traditional techniques.

channel

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