Description
A classic Italian appetizer featuring crispy toasted bread topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and aromatic garlic for an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and slice the bread into half-inch thick diagonal pieces.
- 2. Brush both sides of bread slices with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.
- 3. Toast bread for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- 4. While bread toasts, dice tomatoes and place in a bowl with minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- 5. Let tomato mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 6. Rub toasted bread slices with halved garlic clove while still warm.
- 7. Place thin slices of fresh mozzarella on each piece of toasted bread.
- 8. Top with tomato mixture using a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid.
- 9. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
- 10. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
Store components separately. Tomato mixture keeps for up to 2 days refrigerated. Toast bread just before serving to maintain crispness. Best enjoyed immediately after assembly. Can be served as appetizer or light meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g