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Fresh Tomato Bruschetta Hearts Easy Homemade Recipe with Basil and Olive Oil

fresh tomato bruschetta hearts - featured image

A quick and easy fresh tomato bruschetta recipe featuring juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and extra virgin olive oil served on heart-shaped toasted bread slices. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes, finely diced
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 small loaf French baguette or Italian bread, sliced ½ inch thick and cut into heart shapes
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Optional toppings: shaved Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry fresh ripe tomatoes. Cut off the cores and dice into small, uniform pieces (about ¼-inch). Place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Rinse basil leaves, pat dry, then stack and roll tightly before slicing into thin ribbons (chiffonade). Add to the tomatoes.
  3. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic with extra virgin olive oil. Let sit for a few minutes to mellow the garlic flavor. Pour over the tomato and basil mixture. Add salt, black pepper, and optional balsamic vinegar. Toss gently and let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Cut the baguette or Italian bread into ½-inch slices. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to press out heart shapes from each slice. Arrange on a baking sheet.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast the bread hearts for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
  6. Spoon the tomato and basil mixture generously onto each toasted heart. Add optional toppings like shaved Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

If tomatoes release too much juice, drain slightly before adding to avoid soggy bread. Let the topping rest to develop flavors. Toast bread close to serving time to keep crisp. Can substitute gluten-free bread or dairy-free cheese for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: bruschetta, tomato bruschetta, fresh tomato recipe, basil, olive oil, appetizer, easy recipe, heart-shaped bruschetta