Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta

Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta is a fresh and savory appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze, it captures the essence of classic Italian flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is colorful, easy to prepare, and full of vibrant Mediterranean flavor. It’s an excellent starter or snack for parties, picnics, or summer dinners. The combination of warm toasted bread and cool, marinated toppings is both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• Fresh mozzarella (pearls or diced)
• Fresh basil leaves (chopped or torn)
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Baguette or rustic Italian bread (sliced)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. While the bread toasts, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir gently.
3. Rub each warm toast slice with a cut clove of garlic for extra flavor.
4. Spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture over each toast.
5. Drizzle with additional olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving.
6. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 (as an appetizer)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add diced avocado for a creamy twist.
• Use marinated mozzarella balls for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for mild heat.
• Substitute basil with arugula or baby spinach.
• Add a layer of pesto on the toast before topping.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best assembled and served fresh. You can prepare the tomato and mozzarella topping in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Toast bread just before serving. Assembled bruschetta should not be stored, as the bread will become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry?

Yes, grape tomatoes work just as well and can be halved or quartered.

What type of bread works best?

Baguette or rustic Italian bread with a firm crust is ideal.

Should I peel the tomatoes?

No, cherry tomatoes have thin skins that are pleasant to eat.

Can I make the topping ahead of time?

Yes, mix the topping and refrigerate for up to a day. Stir again before serving.

Is balsamic glaze necessary?

It’s optional but adds a sweet-tangy contrast that complements the dish.

Can I use shredded mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is preferred for its texture and flavor, but shredded can be used in a pinch.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Use dried basil sparingly or substitute with another fresh herb like parsley.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread for toasting.

Should I toast the bread in a pan or oven?

Either method works, but the oven allows for more even toasting of multiple slices.

Can I turn this into a salad?

Yes, mix the topping ingredients and serve over greens with toasted croutons.

Conclusion

Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta is a bright, flavorful appetizer that celebrates the simplicity of quality ingredients. With creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil on crunchy toast, it delivers authentic Italian flavor in every bite—ideal for entertaining or a quick snack.

Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta

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Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta is a light and flavorful Italian appetizer made with toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh mix of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, finished with a balsamic glaze.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 12 pieces 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Toasting
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing bread)
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
2. Toast the bread in the oven for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
4. Spoon the tomato-mozzarella mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

• Use colorful heirloom cherry tomatoes for visual appeal.
• Fresh basil adds the most flavor—add just before serving.
• Toast the bread just before serving to keep it crisp.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 95
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg