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Caprese Bruschetta

This is a simple Italian appetizer that’s perfect for parties – you can prep the tomato mixture hours ahead and just assemble when guests arrive. The balsamic reduction really makes it special but takes a few extra minutes.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Ingredients (~20 pieces)

  • 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cups fresh Roma tomatoes seeded and diced
  • 2 tsp garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 tsp white balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil julienned
  • 1 French baguette cut in 1/2-inch slices
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 large garlic cloves peeled
  • 8 slices fresh mozzarella

Instructions

  • Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low, remove lid, and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon.
  • Pour into a bowl to cool.
  • Rinse Roma tomatoes, halve lengthwise, scoop out pulp and seeds, and finely dice the flesh.
  • Mix diced tomatoes with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and white balsamic vinegar.
  • Stack basil leaves, cut into ribbons, and gently fold into tomato mixture.
  • Let tomato mixture stand at room temperature.
  • Position oven rack 6 inches from broiler and turn broiler on high.
  • Slice baguette diagonally and lay slices on a baking sheet.
  • Brush both sides of bread with olive oil.
  • Broil both sides until lightly golden, watching closely.
  • While bread is warm, rub both sides with peeled garlic cloves.
  • Turn off broiler and preheat oven to 400F.
  • Place one slice of mozzarella on each baguette slice.
  • Bake for 4-5 minutes until cheese is melted.
  • Remove from oven and sprinkle lightly with salt.
  • Top each piece with a spoonful of tomato mixture and drizzle with balsamic reduction.
  • Serve immediately while bread is crispy.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below & let me know!