Description
This Easy Tomato and Bacon Bruschetta is a delightful appetizer featuring toasted French baguette slices topped with a fresh mixture of diced cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and crispy bacon, all drizzled with a optional balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. Ideal for parties, quick snacks, or light gatherings, it combines crisp textures with vibrant, fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for toasting the bread slices evenly.
- Prepare the Bread: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil to enhance flavor and promote browning. Toast the slices in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. This step creates the perfect crunchy base for the bruschetta.
- Make the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine diced cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh basil, crumbled cooked bacon, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the ingredients to mix well, allowing the flavors to meld without breaking down the tomato pieces.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Once the bread slices are toasted, remove them from the oven. Immediately spoon the tomato and bacon mixture generously over each slice so the warmth of the bread slightly softens the topping, enhancing its flavor.
- Serve: If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the bruschetta for a sweet and tangy finish. Serve immediately while the bread is warm and crisp for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness in the topping.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative.
- You can prepare the topping mixture ahead of time, but assemble just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.
- If balsamic glaze is unavailable, a reduction of balsamic vinegar can be made by simmering it until thickened.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 4 pieces)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
