Bruschetta Toasts Diagonal Line

Crispy baguette slices topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, served in an elegant diagonal line perfect for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

I love serving these bruschetta to guests because the diagonal arrangement makes it look charming and festive while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• French baguette: 1, sliced diagonally into 8 pieces about 1/2-inch thick
• Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp for toasts, plus 1 tbsp for topping
• Ripe tomatoes: 2 medium, diced
• Garlic clove: 1 small minced for topping, plus 1 small peeled for rubbing toast
• Fresh basil leaves: 2 tbsp finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
• Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
• Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Balsamic glaze: For drizzling optional

Instructions

Preheat oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange slices:

Arrange the baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.

Bake toasts:

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway until golden and crisp.

Prepare topping:

While the toasts bake combine diced tomatoes minced garlic chopped basil 1 tbsp olive oil salt and pepper in a bowl. Toss gently and set aside.

Rub toasts:

Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. While still warm gently rub one side of each slice with the peeled garlic clove.

Assemble bruschetta:

Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toast. Arrange on a platter in a diagonal line for an elegant presentation.

Garnish and serve:

Garnish with extra basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.

Pin Recipe

My family always gathers around the kitchen when I prepare these toasts and they disappear within minutes.

Notes

For extra flavor add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture and pair with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Prosecco.

Required Tools

Baking sheet parchment paper small mixing bowl bread knife pastry brush spoon

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat gluten May contain Sulfites if using balsamic glaze If you have allergies always check ingredient labels.

Pin Recipe

This bruschetta recipe is both quick and elegant making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for these toasts?

Use a fresh French baguette, sliced diagonally to create the ideal thickness for crispiness and support of toppings.

→ How do I achieve the perfect toast crispiness?

Brush the bread slices with olive oil on both sides and bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ Can I prepare the tomato topping in advance?

Yes, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper ahead of time but add just before serving to keep the freshness.

→ What is the purpose of rubbing garlic on the warm toasts?

Rubbing peeled garlic on warm bread adds a subtle aromatic flavor enhancing the overall taste of the toasts.

→ Are there optional garnishes to consider?

Fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze provide added color and a sweet tang complementing the toppings.