In the warm months of the year, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fresh and flavorful appetizer that celebrates the vibrant essence of Italian cuisine. One such delightful dish is the Tomato and Basil Crostini, a classic favorite that never fails to impress guests with its simple yet sophisticated flavors. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a classy party appetizer, or even a casual snack. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread makes this crostini a delicious way to capture the essence of a Mediterranean summer. Let’s dive in and create this savory treat together!
**Tomato And Basil Crostini**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
– 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and drizzle each slice with a little olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
3. Once the baguette slices are toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Rub each slice with a garlic clove for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture generously onto each toasted baguette slice. Make sure to allow some of the juices from the tomatoes to soak into the bread for added taste.
5. For a finishing touch, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top of each crostini. This will add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
6. Arrange the Tomato and Basil Crostini on a serving platter and garnish with extra basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.
7. Serve the crostini immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy. Watch as your guests delight in the burst of fresh flavors with every bite.
Enjoy these Tomato and Basil Crostini as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering, or savor them as a light and flavorful snack on a sunny afternoon. This recipe is versatile and can easily be customized with additional toppings like mozzarella cheese, olives, or a drizzle of honey for a unique twist. Let the essence of Italian flavors transport you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with each delicious bite.
