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This crostini with tomato and basil brings a burst of fresh flavor to your snack time. Crunchy toasted baguette slices piled with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil make it a great pick for get-togethers or a light bite.
I served these at a summer night gathering and they vanished fast. Now I reach for this anytime I want something fresh and simple that still wows.
What You Need
- Thin baguette slices for a crisp base: find one with a crunchy outside and soft inside
- Bright, diced cherry tomatoes full of juice: pick tomatoes that’re firm and shiny for the best taste
- Chopped fresh basil leaves to release their scent: choose vibrant greens without spots
- A garlic clove for a mild savory hint
- Good olive oil for richness and smooth feel: better quality makes a difference
- Salt and pepper to bring all the tastes together
Step-by-step Guide
- Start With Toasting The Bread:
- Set your oven to 400°F. Spread the baguette slices on a baking tray and brush both sides with half the olive oil so they turn golden and crisp. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re nicely toasted and crunchy.
- Make The Tomato Mix:
- While the bread toasts, toss diced tomatoes with chopped basil in a bowl. Drizzle in the rest of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Keep it juicy but not dripping wet.
- Give It A Garlic Touch:
- Right after toasting, and while the bread’s still warm, rub each slice lightly with the garlic’s cut side. This adds a soft, tasty garlic scent that lifts it all up.
- Put It All Together:
- Load each toast slice with plenty of the tomato and basil mix then serve right away to keep that crisp crunch.
I clearly remember making this with my grandma on a sunny afternoon. She showed me how layering flavors matters and how to toast bread until it’s just right. Every bite reminds me of those warm kitchen moments.
How To Store It
If you want to get ahead, keep the toasted bread and tomato topping in separate airtight containers. Keep the bread wrapped in a towel at room temp to stay crunchy. The tomato mix lasts up to two days in the fridge, but add it last minute so it doesn’t get soggy.
Tasty Switch-ups
Use heirloom tomatoes instead of cherry for a softer, deeper taste. Add finely chopped red onion or shallots for a little zing. Throw in fresh mozzarella chunks or crumbled goat cheese to make it a heartier snack.
Best Things To Serve With It
Pair it with a cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé to bring out the fresh herb flavors. Add a lemony mixed green salad for a well-rounded light meal. Or enjoy it alongside grilled veggies or a Mediterranean plate for a colorful combo.
Simple and tasty, this crostini brightens up any snack or party spread. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with summer’s best flavors all year round.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What type of bread works best for crostini?
Sturdy baguette with a good crumb is perfect since it toasts evenly and stays nice and crunchy.
- → Can I prepare the tomato basil topping ahead of time?
Sure, you can mix the tomatoes and basil a few hours before to let the flavors blend. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
- → How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Make sure you toast the slices well and rub them with garlic. Add the tomato topping right before serving so everything stays crisp.
- → Are there alternative toppings to try with toasted bread?
Apart from tomato basil, try olive tapenade, roasted peppers, or some creamy cheeses—they all taste great on toasted baguette.
- → What is the best way to toast the baguette slices?
Coat both sides lightly with olive oil and pop them in a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until they’re golden and crunchy.