Classic Italian Bruschetta Recipe That’s Perfect for Any Gathering
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s simple, fresh, and guaranteed to impress, this Classic Italian Bruschetta is your answer. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread drizzled in olive oil, this dish brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. It’s the perfect start to any meal or a light snack on its own!
The first time I served bruschetta at a dinner party, it disappeared in minutes. Everyone raved about the bright, zesty flavors and couldn’t believe how easy it was to make. Now, it’s my go-to appetizer for entertaining or whenever I have fresh tomatoes and basil to use up. Trust me—this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bruschetta is all about simple, high-quality ingredients that shine. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and good olive oil creates a topping that’s bursting with flavor. Add a perfectly toasted baguette, and you’ve got a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Your Grocery List
- 1 baguette or Italian bread
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish
The Key to Perfect Bruschetta
The secret to great bruschetta is in the bread. Slice your baguette into thin rounds, brush each slice with olive oil, and toast them just until golden. For an authentic Italian touch, rub a clove of garlic over the warm bread after toasting—it adds incredible flavor!
Make It Your Own
There are so many ways to customize bruschetta. Add a little diced red onion for extra crunch, or sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Mediterranean twist. You can even use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful and vibrant presentation. If you’re a garlic lover, mix a bit of roasted garlic into the tomato topping for a mellow, sweet flavor.
Serving and Storing
Bruschetta is best served fresh, as the bread can soften if it sits too long. If you have leftover tomato topping, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toast fresh bread when you’re ready to serve again, and it’ll taste just as good as the first time!
Additional Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices
Nutrition Info: Approximately 90 calories per slice
Fun Fact: Did you know the word “bruschetta” comes from the Italian word “bruscare,” meaning “to roast over coals”? It’s a nod to the traditional way of toasting bread!
Pairing Tips: Serve bruschetta with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or an Aperol Spritz. For dessert, a light panna cotta or lemon sorbet would complement the flavors perfectly.

Classic Italian Bruschetta
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Bread knife
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or Italian bread
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- To taste salt and pepper
- Optional shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into thin rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Brush each slice of bread lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Once the bread is toasted, rub each slice with a clove of garlic for extra flavor.
- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices. Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.