Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Taste of Home
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This is one of the appetizers my friends request most. There is rarely any left over when I serve it. The red pepper flakes and basil add a nice little kick to the taste.
-Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, Pennsylvania
SERVINGS: 20
CATEGORY: Appetizer
METHOD:
TIME: Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 1-1/2 cups chopped seeded plum tomatoes
- 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimientos, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Directions:
Using 2 tablespoons oil, lightly brush one side of bread slices. Place bread oil side up on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, pimientos, chopped basil, vinegar, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper flakes and pepper; stir in Romano cheese. Place a whole basil leaf on each slice of toast bread. Top with tomato mixture. Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Serve immediately. Yield: 20 appetizers.