Save Crispy baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, served in an elegant diagonal line perfect for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at my family gatherings because it looks impressive yet is so easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- For the Toasts: 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally into 8 pieces (about 1/2-inch thick), 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- For the Topping: 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced, 1 small garlic clove, minced, 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- To Serve: 1 small garlic clove, peeled (for rubbing toast), Extra basil leaves, for garnish (optional), Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Step 3:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Step 4:
- While the toasts bake, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss gently and set aside.
- Step 5:
- Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. While still warm, gently rub one side of each slice with the peeled garlic clove.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toast. Arrange on a platter in a diagonal line for an elegant presentation.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with extra basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe has been a hit at our family parties where everyone loves the fresh burst of flavors and the elegant presentation.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Small mixing bowl, Bread knife, Pastry brush, Spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten). May contain Sulfites (if using balsamic glaze). If you have allergies, always check ingredient labels.
Save Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and fresh flavor of this classic appetizer.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the perfect crispiness for the toasts?
Brush both sides of the baguette slices generously with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- → Can I prepare the topping in advance?
Yes, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil ahead of time, but assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What is the purpose of rubbing the toasted bread with garlic?
Rubbing garlic on warm toasted bread infuses a subtle, aromatic flavor enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the toppings.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes to elevate the presentation?
Extra basil leaves and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze add visual appeal and complementary flavor notes to the dish.
- → What type of tomatoes work best for topping?
Use ripe, juicy tomatoes such as heirloom or cherry varieties for sweetness, color, and balanced acidity in the topping mix.