How do I keep the bruschetta from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy bruschetta, make sure to: Use firm tomatoes and remove seeds and excess juice before chopping. Grill the bread until it's crispy on the outside. Assemble the bruschetta right before serving. Never let it sit too long once topped.

Can I make Italian Tomato Bruschetta in advance?

You can prep the tomato mixture 2–3 hours ahead and store it in the fridge. However, don’t toast the bread or assemble the bruschetta until just before serving to maintain that signature crunch and freshness.

Is Italian Tomato Bruschetta healthy?

Yes! It’s naturally vegetarian and packed with fresh veggies, heart-healthy olive oil, and herbs. To keep it extra healthy, choose whole-grain or gluten-free bread and limit added salt or cheese. It’s a perfect choice for a clean-eating appetizer or light snack.

Italian Tomato Bruschetta – Best Easy Appetizer Recipe

Name: Italian Tomato Bruschetta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 slices day-old Italian crusty bread: for a sturdy, crunchy base; 1–2 cloves garlic: for rubbing on toasted bread; 2–3 pinches salt: enhances flavor on the bread; 4 medium to large ripe tomatoes, chopped and deseeded: juicy, sweet base for topping; 1/2 red onion, chopped: adds sharpness and flavor depth; 1 celery stalk, chopped: provides crisp texture and freshness; 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the acidity of tomatoes; 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano: adds earthy flavor; 4–5 fresh basil and parsley leaves, chopped: for bright herbal aroma; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: rich Mediterranean flavor; Optional: balsamic glaze or vinegar to drizzle on top

Description

Italian Tomato Bruschetta is a classic antipasto made with toasted Italian bread rubbed with garlic and topped with a vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, red onion, celery, basil, parsley, and oregano. Drizzled with olive oil and optionally balsamic glaze, it’s a simple, fresh, and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings or light appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale

6 slices day-old Italian crusty bread: for a sturdy, crunchy base
1–2 cloves garlic: for rubbing on toasted bread
2–3 pinches salt: enhances flavor on the bread
4 medium to large ripe tomatoes, chopped and deseeded: juicy, sweet base for topping
1/2 red onion, chopped: adds sharpness and flavor depth
1 celery stalk, chopped: provides crisp texture and freshness
1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the acidity of tomatoes
1 1/2 teaspoons oregano: adds earthy flavor
4–5 fresh basil and parsley leaves, chopped: for bright herbal aroma
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: rich Mediterranean flavor
Optional: balsamic glaze or vinegar to drizzle on top

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Instructions

Slice the bread into 1/4-inch thick pieces and grill or pan-toast until golden and crispy on both sides.
While warm, rub each slice with a clove of garlic and sprinkle lightly with salt.
In a medium bowl, mix chopped tomatoes, red onion, celery, salt, oregano, chopped basil, and parsley.
Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Spoon the tomato topping generously over the toasted bread slices.
Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinegar for added depth.
Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp.

Notes

Use firm, ripe tomatoes to avoid soggy bruschetta.
Remove seeds and excess pulp from tomatoes to control moisture.
Grill bread just until golden and still slightly soft inside.
Serve immediately to maintain crunch and freshness.
Fresh herbs are essential for authentic flavor—avoid dried substitutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 177 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 479 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg