Best Italian Bruschetta Appetizer (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Tomato Topping

01 - 3-4 garden fresh tomatoes, diced small
02 - ½ teaspoon salt
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
05 - ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
06 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Baguette and Glaze

08 - 1 baguette, sliced on a diagonal in ½ inch slices
09 - Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
10 - ½ cup balsamic vinegar
11 - 3 tablespoons brown sugar
12 - Parmesan Cheese (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Combine diced tomatoes and salt in a bowl. Let sit for 20-30 minutes. Drain any tomato juice. Add garlic, basil, and pepper, then stir gently to combine. Drizzle with vinegar and olive oil, and stir to coat. Let sit for another 20-30 minutes at room temperature.
02 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, then flip the slices and bake for 2-3 minutes more, or until golden brown.
03 - Combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a low boil and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
04 - Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices. Arrange them on a serving platter and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese. Serve promptly for best results.