Description
These Roasted Tomato and Garlic Bruschetta Bites are a delightful Italian appetizer featuring blistered cherry tomatoes and caramelized garlic roasted to perfection. Topped with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese, they offer a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors, served on toasted baguette rounds. Ideal for parties or elegant snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Toast
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Remaining olive oil (from the 3 tablespoons)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the tomatoes and garlic.
- Roast Tomatoes and Garlic: Place the halved cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the garlic is soft and lightly caramelized.
- Prepare Tomato Mixture: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Gently mash the roasted garlic cloves, then stir them into the roasted tomatoes along with the balsamic vinegar and honey if using. Mix well to combine flavors.
- Toast Baguette Slices: Brush the sliced baguette rounds with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange them on a separate baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes until they are golden and crisp.
- Assemble Bruschetta Bites: Spoon the roasted tomato and garlic mixture onto each toasted baguette slice evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each bruschetta bite with finely chopped fresh basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
- These bruschetta bites can be prepared slightly ahead; assemble just before serving to keep the toast crisp.
- For extra richness, spread a thin layer of ricotta or cream cheese on the toasted baguette before adding the tomato mixture.
