Description
A classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted French bread topped with a flavorful mixture of diced Roma tomatoes, garlic-infused olive oil, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic
- 26 oz. roma tomatoes, diced (about 7-8)
- 1/4 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar, or more to taste
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt, then more to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped basil ribbons (chiffonade)
Bread
- 1 (14.5 oz) loaf hearty french bread (such as La Brea), sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices (about 12 slices)
Instructions
- Prepare garlic oil: Heat olive oil in a small skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until just starting to turn golden, about 1 minute, being careful not to brown it.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the garlic-infused olive oil into a large mixing bowl and let it cool while you chop the tomatoes and basil.
- Mix tomato topping: Add diced tomatoes to the cooled oil mixture. Stir in parmesan cheese, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to combine. Serve immediately over toasted bread, spooning some of the juices atop. Garnish with extra parmesan if desired.
- Toast bread: Position the oven rack a few inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler. Arrange bread slices on an 18 by 13-inch baking sheet. Broil the first side until golden brown, about 1 minute, watching carefully to prevent burning. Flip the slices and broil the opposite side until golden brown.
Notes
- Use ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not brown the garlic; it should be lightly golden for a mellow flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar adds acidity and sweetness; adjust amount to taste.
- Serve the tomato mixture fresh to keep the bread crisp.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the French bread with gluten-free baguette slices.
- To add a smoky flavor, grill the bread slices instead of broiling.
