Heirloom Tomato Crostini

Fresh, juicy heirloom tomatoes combined with crispy toasted bread make for a simple yet delicious appetizer. This easy crostini recipe is perfect for sharing with friends on a sunny afternoon or as a light snack anytime.

Pro Kitchen Tips

Use day-old bread for better toasting and crunch.
Drizzle olive oil on the bread before toasting for extra flavor.
Choose a variety of heirloom tomatoes to add vibrant colors and different tastes.

Ingredients 0/8

1 pound small heirloom tomatoes, halved ¼ cup chopped fresh basil 2 tablespoons truffle-infused olive oil (such as Olevano) kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil, or more as needed 1 tablespoon chopped garlic 1 French baguette, cut into 1-inch-thick slices 1 clove garlic, peeled and halved

What Makes This Recipe So Good

This appetizer brings together the fresh, sweet flavor of ripe tomatoes and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick snack.

Directions

Combine the heirloom tomatoes with some chopped basil, a drizzle of truffle oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let that sit while you get the bread ready. Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped garlic and let it sizzle for a bit. Toast the baguette slices in the skillet until they’re golden and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Once the bread is toasted, rub both sides with a halved garlic clove for extra flavor. Finally, spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each slice and enjoy!

people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve these crostini as a starter at your next dinner party or pair them with a fresh green salad for a simple lunch. They also go well with a glass of chilled white wine or rosé.

Storage Guide

Prepare the tomato topping ahead of time but toast the bread just before serving to keep it crisp. Store any leftover tomato mixture in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid assembling too early to prevent soggy crostini.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular olive oil instead of truffle-infused olive oil?

Yes, regular olive oil works fine, but the truffle oil adds a unique, earthy flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the bread until crispy and rub it with garlic to create a barrier before adding the tomato mixture.

Can I prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the tomatoes, basil, and seasonings up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate.

What type of tomatoes works best for this recipe?

Small heirloom tomatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, but cherry or grape tomatoes can be used.

Is there a substitute for fresh basil?

You can use fresh parsley or oregano, but basil provides the best complementary flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

It’s naturally vegan, but to make it gluten-free, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the tomato mixture and toasted bread separate; store tomatoes in the fridge and bread at room temperature.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, adding fresh mozzarella or goat cheese is a delicious option to enhance the flavor.