Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this classic bruschetta recipe. Crispy toasted bread is topped with a vibrant mix of juicy tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. It's the perfect appetizer to transport your taste buds to the streets of Rome.

Here's a traditional Italian bruschetta recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

 - 1 baguette or Italian bread loaf, sliced

 - 4-5 ripe tomatoes, diced

 - 2 cloves of garlic, minced

 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

 - 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

 - Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2- Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and crispy. You can also toast the bread in a toaster or on a grill.

3- In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

4- Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread slices, spreading it evenly.

5- Serve the bruschetta immediately as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Italy with this simple and flavorful bruschetta recipe!

Nutritional Values :

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Italian bruschetta recipe:

Baguette or Italian Bread Loaf (1 loaf, sliced):

  - Calories (per slice, about 1 ounce / 28g): 80

  - Fat (per slice): 0.5 g

  - Carbohydrates (per slice): 15 g

  - Protein (per slice): 2 g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and serves as a base for the bruschetta. Whole grain options offer additional fiber and nutrients.

Ripe Tomatoes (4-5 tomatoes, about 2 cups diced):

  - Calories (per cup, diced): 30

  - Fat (per cup): 0.3 g

  - Carbohydrates (per cup): 7 g

  - Protein (per cup): 1.5 g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which support overall health and reduce inflammation.

Garlic (2 cloves):

  - Calories (per clove): 5

  - Fat (per clove): 0 g

  - Carbohydrates (per clove): 1 g

  - Protein (per clove): 0.2 g

Benefits: Known for its potential health benefits, including improved immune function and cardiovascular health due to its allicin content.

Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped):

  - Calories (per 1/4 cup): 2

  - Fat (per 1/4 cup): 0 g

  - Carbohydrates (per 1/4 cup): 0.5 g

  - Protein (per 1/4 cup): 0.1 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and is a source of vitamins A, C, and K. Also contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories (per tablespoon): 120

  - Fat (per tablespoon): 14 g (primarily monounsaturated fats)

  - Carbohydrates (per tablespoon): 0 g

  - Protein (per tablespoon): 0 g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats and antioxidants. Supports heart health and adds richness to the bruschetta.

Balsamic Vinegar (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories (per teaspoon): 5

  - Fat (per teaspoon): 0 g

  - Carbohydrates (per teaspoon): 1 g

  - Protein (per teaspoon): 0 g

Benefits: Adds a tangy flavor and some antioxidants. Generally low in calories and contributes to the overall flavor profile.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.