Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze

This simple bruschetta combines crunchy toasted bread with fresh tomatoes and a sweet balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of flavors. The tangy balsamic reduction drizzled over ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil creates an irresistible appetizer that looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
• 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing)
• 3 large ripe tomatoes (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced (1 for rubbing bread, 2 for tomato mixture))
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
• 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush both sides of bread slices with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
3. While bread is toasting, combine diced tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, basil, 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half and thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
5. When bread is toasted, rub each slice with the remaining garlic clove.
6. Top each bread slice with the tomato mixture and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Serve immediately.

Notes