Save to Pinterest A vibrant appetizer featuring smoky fire-roasted tomatoes and peppers atop crisp toasted baguette slices, finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 3 medium ripe tomatoes, 2 medium red bell peppers, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 small red onion, finely diced
- Herbs & Seasoning: ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1½ tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Bread: 1 baguette, sliced into ½ inch thick pieces
Instructions
- Preheat grill:
- Preheat a grill or broiler to high.
- Roast vegetables:
- Place tomatoes and red bell peppers directly over the flames or under the broiler. Roast turning occasionally until skins are blackened and blistered (about 8 10 minutes).
- Steam vegetables:
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a plate, and let steam for 5 minutes.
- Peel and chop:
- Peel and discard the skins from the tomatoes and peppers. Remove pepper seeds. Chop both into small dice.
- Combine ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, peppers, garlic, red onion, basil, parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add dressing:
- Stir in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Mix gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toast bread:
- Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil. Toast on the grill or under the broiler until golden and crisp, about 1 2 minutes each side.
- Assemble bruschetta:
- Spoon the tomato pepper mixture generously onto each toasted baguette slice. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with additional basil if desired. Serve immediately.
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Common Recipe Questions
- → How do roasting tomatoes and peppers affect their flavor?
Roasting over high heat blisters and chars the skins, intensifying the natural sweetness and adding a smoky depth to the vegetables.
- → Can I prepare this without a grill or broiler?
Yes, you can roast the tomatoes and peppers under a high oven broiler or on a hot cast iron skillet to achieve similar blistering and smoky flavor.
- → What is the best way to toast the baguette slices?
Lightly brush slices with olive oil and toast them on a grill or under a broiler until they turn golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 1-2 minutes each side.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the toasted bread?
Rubbing the warm toasts with a cut clove of garlic before topping adds aromatic depth and subtle zing.
- → Are there vegetarian modifications for this dish?
This preparation is naturally vegetarian, but complementing with crumbled feta or goat cheese offers a tangy contrast if desired.
- → What wines pair well with this tomato and pepper dish?
Light, crisp whites such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complement the smoky vegetables and fresh herbs beautifully.