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Basic Bruschetta (Plant-Based, Oil-Free)

Author : Ashley Madden
Prep Time: 15 mins
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 beefsteak tomatoes  3 to 4 cups diced whatever tomatoes are fresh and in season*
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red or white onion
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tbsp thinly sliced fresh basil
  • pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Bread

  • Bread of choice, sliced (as thick or thin as you like)
  • 2 large garlic cloves, halved
  • Garnish: red pepper flakes, fresh basil

Instructions
 

  • Cut the tomatoes in half and remove all the juice and seeds and discard (if using cherry tomatoes, you can skip this step). Dice the tomatoes and place in a large bowl. Add the garlic, onion, and balsamic and mix. Set aside for 15 minutes to marinate. This step isn't essential but I think makes for a better end result.
  • Now add the fresh basil, salt, and red pepper flakes. Toss and re-season to taste. 
  • Toast your bread until golden in color (I like to do this in the oven). When cool enough to handle, but still warm, rub the halved garlic cloves into each slice. This creates incredible flavor!  Immediately spoon the bruschetta onto the toast and garnish with more basil and red pepper flakes if desired for a spicy finish.

Notes

* use whatever tomatoes are freshest – cherry, Roma, Campari! Whatever tomatoes are the most beautiful!

NOTES

You can always add more flair and excitement to your bruschetta by adding any of the following:
- sliced olives
- diced cucumber
- diced avocado
- capers
- nut parmesan
- drizzle of balsamic reduction
Bread:
You can use whatever bread you love. If gluten isn't an issue, try thick slices of fresh sour dough or French bread. 
You can also use sliced sweet potato baked in oven until just tender as your "bread".
I plan on trying this gluten-free sour dough next!
Did you make this recipe? Tag @riseshinecook on Instagram or hashtag it #riseshinecook