Easy Italian Bruschetta Pomodoro Recipe
This Easy Italian Bruschetta Pomodoro is a classic appetizer featuring fresh diced Roma tomatoes, red onion, basil, and garlic drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, then served atop crispy toasted crusty bread. It’s a vibrant and flavorful starter that embodies traditional Italian flavors, perfect for summer entertaining or a light snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 8 Roma tomatoes, about 1 ½ lbs, diced
- 2-3 tablespoons red onion, diced
- 10-12 torn basil leaves, plus more for serving
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, 2 cloves minced for tomato mixture, 2 cloves whole for bread rubbing
- 1 teaspoon oregano leaves, or ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (for tomato mixture)
Bread
- 1 loaf crusty bread, such as Ciabatta or baguette
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (for brushing bread)
- Extra olive oil for drizzling when serving
Optional
- Balsamic glaze, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the diced Roma tomatoes, diced red onion, torn basil leaves, minced garlic (2 cloves), oregano leaves, kosher salt, and ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil. Stir gently to combine and let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the crusty bread loaf into ½ inch thick slices. Lightly brush each slice with the remaining ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil.
- Toast the Bread: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Toast the bread slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Rub with Garlic: Immediately after toasting, rub each slice with the remaining 2 whole garlic cloves to infuse a subtle garlic flavor.
- Assemble Bruschetta: Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toasted bread slice. Drizzle with a little more extra virgin olive oil and garnish with additional basil leaves.
- Serve with Optional Balsamic Glaze: If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the bruschetta for a sweet and tangy finish. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy.
Notes
- For best flavor, use ripe Roma tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- You can prepare the tomato mixture a few hours ahead to enhance flavor, but add salt just before serving to prevent excess water release.
- If balsamic glaze is unavailable, a simple drizzle of balsamic vinegar also works well.
- Make sure to toast the bread until crispy to hold the juicy tomato topping without getting soggy.
- This recipe can be served as an appetizer or light snack.
