Pin it 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 has become a staple at our family gatherings as it always impresses guests with its simplicity and taste.
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.
Pin it Gathering around to enjoy these toasts always lights up our meals and sparks great conversation.
Notes
For extra flavor add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. Use heirloom or cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
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.
Pin it
This simple appetizer is perfect for any occasion and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the best bread choice for this dish?
A French baguette sliced about half an inch thick works best, offering a crispy yet tender base when toasted.
- → How do I get the toast slices crisp without burning?
Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway for even crispness.
- → Can I prepare the tomato topping in advance?
Yes, the tomato, garlic, and basil mixture can be made ahead and kept chilled for up to a few hours to allow flavors to meld.
- → What adds the best flavor to the toasts after baking?
Rubbing a peeled garlic clove on warm toasts adds a subtle garlic aroma that complements the fresh tomato topping.
- → Are there optional additions to enhance the flavor?
Yes, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce sweet or spicy notes to the toasts.