Crostini with Tomato and Basil

Crostini with Tomato and Basil

Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful crostini topped with ripe, juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil. This dish captures the essence of summer, bringing together fresh ingredients that sing with flavor. The crispy baguette serves as the perfect canvas for the vibrant toppings, and the balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that will have your guests coming back for more. Originating from Italy, crostini has a rich history of being served as a traditional starter, showcasing the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients.

Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • Baguette (1, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • Olive oil (3 tablespoons, plus more for brushing)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  • Tomatoes (2 cups, diced (preferably heirloom or vine-ripened))
  • Fresh basil leaves (1 cup, chopped)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground)
  • Balsamic glaze (1/4 cup, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil to ensure a crispy texture.
  3. Bake the baguette slices for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to combine, ensuring the tomatoes and basil are well coated with garlic and seasoning.
  5. Once the baguette slices are baked, spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each slice.
  6. Drizzle the crostini with balsamic glaze just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sweetness.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors!

Dietary Information

Servings: 12 • Dish Type: Appetizer • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 150 • Fat: 8g • Carbs: 18g • Protein: 3g • Sodium: 200mg • Sugar: 2g