Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a fresh and fast appetizer featuring crusty baguette topped with juicy tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, basil, and Parmesan. Perfect for summer meals or cozy dinners — ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
1 large baguette or Italian loaf, sliced thick
2–3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into rounds
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or thinly sliced (julienned)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
2–3 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the baguette into thick pieces and brush each slice with olive oil. Arrange on the baking sheet.
Rub or sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the bread slices.
Top each slice with mozzarella cheese, followed by tomato rounds. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese if using.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden.
Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
– Use day-old baguette for crispier texture.
– Strain tomatoes if too watery to avoid soggy bread.
– Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
– Substitute Parmesan with feta or goat cheese if desired.
– Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in oven for best texture.