Pin 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 always impresses guests with its fresh ingredients and elegant presentation.
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 This recipe brings back memories of summer evenings spent with family on the patio, enjoying fresh flavors and good company.
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 This simple appetizer is perfect for any occasion, delivering fresh flavors with minimal effort.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of bread works best for these toasts?
A French baguette sliced about 1/2-inch thick is ideal for achieving crispy, sturdy toasts that hold toppings well.
- → How should the garlic be used on the toasts?
After baking, rub a peeled garlic clove gently on the warm toasts to infuse them with subtle garlic aroma without overpowering the topping.
- → Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?
Yes, the tomato, basil, garlic, and olive oil mix can be prepared ahead and kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before serving.
- → What is the purpose of arranging toasts in a diagonal line?
Arranging the toasts diagonally creates an elegant presentation that enhances appeal for entertaining guests.
- → Are there recommended optional garnishes?
Extra fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze add visual appeal and complementary flavors to the toasts.