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Tomato Avocado Bruschetta


  • Author: Jessica

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 French Baguette or Rustic Loaf: The sturdy, crusty foundation for our bruschetta.
  • 2 Large, Ripe Avocados: Hass avocados are preferred for their creamy texture.
  • 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Halved or quartered, providing a sweet, juicy pop. (Alternatively, 45 ripe Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced).
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion: Finely minced for a sharp, crunchy contrast.
  • 2 cloves Garlic: One clove minced for the topping, one clove halved for rubbing on the bread.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves: Chiffonade (thinly sliced) for an aromatic, sweet flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality oil for both the bread and the topping.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to prevent the avocado from browning and add brightness.
  • Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, to enhance all the flavors.
  • Balsamic Glaze: For drizzling over the top as a final, flavorful garnish.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette on a slight diagonal into ½ to ¾-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Brush one side of each slice lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
  2. Toast the Bread: Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the slices are golden brown and crisp. Watch them carefully as they can burn quickly. Once toasted, remove them from the oven. Immediately take the halved garlic clove and rub its cut side over the warm, toasted surface of each bread slice. This infuses the bread with incredible garlic flavor. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the halved or diced tomatoes, the finely minced red onion, the chiffonade of fresh basil, one minced garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Let this mixture sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Prepare the Avocado: In a separate small bowl, cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into the bowl. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Using a fork, mash the avocado to your desired consistency. Some prefer it completely smooth, while others enjoy a chunkier texture. The lemon juice is crucial here as it will help keep the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown.
  5. Assemble the Bruschetta: This step should be done just before serving to ensure the best texture and prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Spread a generous layer of the mashed avocado onto each slice of toasted, garlic-rubbed bread.
  6. Top and Serve: Using a slotted spoon to leave excess liquid behind, spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the avocado layer. Arrange the finished bruschetta on a large platter. Just before serving, drizzle a good quality balsamic glaze over the top of each piece. Serve immediately and enjoy the rave reviews.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 180