Cooking Instructions:
Begin by washing and dicing the ripe tomatoes into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and mix them together in a bowl with the diced tomatoes.
Drizzle the tomato and garlic mixture with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Chop the fresh basil and add it to the mixture along with salt and pepper to taste.
Allow the mixture to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette or chosen bread into 1/2-inch pieces and brush one side with olive oil.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet, olive oil side up, and bake for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before assembling.
Just before serving, spoon the tomato topping generously onto the toasted side of the bread slices. Serve immediately to maintain crispness.
Extra Tips:
For the best bruschetta experience, remember to use ripe tomatoes to avoid a watery topping. Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor, but if you find raw garlic too strong, consider sautéing it lightly.
Assemble the bruschetta right before serving to keep the bread crispy, and feel free to experiment with various toppings to create your own unique variations!