Ingredients
For the bruschetta
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1 French baguette, cut into ½-inch slices
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3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
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200 g fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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½ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, halved
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, plus extra for drizzling (optional)
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½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
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¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
For garnish
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Fresh basil leaves
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Extra-virgin olive oil
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Balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Prepare the bread. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Slice the baguette into evenly sized pieces and arrange them on a baking tray.
2. Toast the bread. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Bake for 5–8 minutes, turning once if needed, until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
3. Add garlic flavor. While the bread is still warm, gently rub the cut side of a garlic clove over the surface of each slice.
4. Prepare the tomatoes. Wash and dice the tomatoes. Remove excess seeds and liquid if they are particularly juicy. Place them in a mixing bowl.
5. Add mozzarella and basil. Add the cubed mozzarella and chopped basil to the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, if using.
6. Season the mixture. Add salt and black pepper. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes so the flavors combine.
7. Assemble the bruschetta. Spoon the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture generously onto each toasted baguette slice just before serving.
8. Finish and serve. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a little extra olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately while the bread is crisp.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving, assuming 16 pieces total:
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Calories: 140–180 kcal
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Protein: 5–7 g
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Carbohydrates: 15–20 g
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Fat: 6–9 g
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Fiber: 1–2 g
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Sugar: 2–4 g
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Sodium: 200–350 mg
Actual nutrition will vary depending on the bread, mozzarella, olive oil, and serving size.
Nut Information
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Nuts in the recipe: None.
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Tree nuts: Not included in the standard ingredients.
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Peanuts: Not included.
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Potential cross-contamination: Check the bread, cheese, and balsamic glaze labels if preparing this for someone with a nut allergy.
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Dairy: Contains mozzarella cheese.
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Gluten: Contains wheat from the baguette.
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Vegan option: Replace mozzarella with a plant-based alternative.