Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

This Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a fresh and flavorful twist on classic garlic bread. With juicy diced tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar, it’s the perfect combination of savory and tangy. Topped with Parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection, this dish is ideal for serving as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 large baguette or Italian loaf
• 3 ripe tomatoes, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Slice the baguette or Italian loaf in half lengthwise, creating two long halves. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes , minced garlic , chopped basil , and balsamic vinegar .
2. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture and stir gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Garlic Bread

1. Brush the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
2. Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the bread, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
3. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top for added flavor and richness.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Place the prepared bread in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese (if used) is melted and bubbly.
2. For extra crispiness, broil the bread for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Slice into individual portions and serve warm. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread

This Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil pair beautifully with the rich garlic and olive oil, while the optional Parmesan adds a savory kick. It’s a step up from traditional garlic bread and perfect for pairing with pasta dishes, soups, or salads—or simply enjoying on its own.

Tips for Success

• Use ripe tomatoes : Ripe, juicy tomatoes are key to achieving the best flavor. Avoid underripe or mealy tomatoes.
• Toast the bread first : For an extra crispy base, lightly toast the bread in the oven for 2–3 minutes before adding the toppings.
• Customize the recipe : Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap Parmesan for mozzarella for a gooier topping.
• Storage : This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a creamy tomato soup or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner.
• Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or extra Parmesan for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Enjoy this Tomato Basil Garlic Bread —a fresh, flavorful, and irresistible twist on a classic favorite!