🍅🌿🧄 Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
Mediterranean-Style | Rustic • Aromatic • Crowd-Pleasing
🫒 Description
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a classic Mediterranean-inspired side that combines toasted bread with sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich olive oil. Fresh garlic infuses every bite, while the tomatoes soften and caramelize slightly in the oven. It’s simple, vibrant, and perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
🧺 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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1 rustic loaf or baguette, sliced lengthwise
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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3–4 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, finely chopped
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
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¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Optional Toppings
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Fresh mozzarella or shredded mozzarella
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Grated Parmesan
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Balsamic glaze drizzle
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. -
Prepare Garlic Oil
In a small bowl, mix olive oil and minced garlic. -
Toast the Bread
Place bread cut-side up on baking sheet.
Brush generously with garlic oil. -
Top with Tomatoes
Spoon chopped tomatoes evenly over the bread.
Season with salt, pepper, and oregano if using. -
Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden and tomatoes soften. -
Finish
Remove from oven. Sprinkle with fresh basil and optional cheese.
Return to oven for 2–3 minutes if adding cheese. -
Serve Warm
Slice and serve immediately.
🍽 Mediterranean Serving Ideas
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With pasta, soups, or salads
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Alongside grilled chicken or fish
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As part of a mezze platter
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes?
A: Fresh is best, but drained diced tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I keep the bread crispy?
A: Don’t overload with tomatoes and bake on the middle rack.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Prep toppings ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I grill this instead of baking?
A: Yes! Grill bread first, then top and return to indirect heat.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Best enjoyed fresh; freezing affects texture.
