Caprese Bruschetta

“Summertime has a flavor like no other. Always fresh and simmered in sunshine.”

And nothing captures the flavors of summertime more than tomato, basil and garlic...

This fresh Caprese Bruschetta is quick and easy to make, so beautiful to look at and absolutely delightful!

It's fun to make and comes together in about 10 minutes..

It's perfect for hosting guests!

Once I've topped the baguette slices I love just letting it stay warm I'm the oven on the lowest setting while I prep for guests. It can stay in the oven for an hour or so on the lowest setting... and then it's ready when you are!

The other option I love about this recipe is that once you combine everything and before topping the baguette, this can easily be served as a delicious side salad!

One final footnote is that of you can drizzle with a balsamic glaze, it's well worth it and takes this dish to the next level.

(Original recipe from Midwest foodie)

I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients;

I pint halved grape tomatoes

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

¼ cup ribbon cut basil + more to top

4 cloves garlic, very thinly sliced

8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls

salt

fresh cracked pepper

14 oz. French bread, sliced

balsamic glaze, optional ( I make a batch in advance and just keep it around)

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large bowl combine tomatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, basil, garlic, mozzarella, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Set aside while you toast the crostini.

(You could also serve now as a side dish)

Brush sliced French bread with 1 tablespoon olive oil, brushing it in an even layer across the bread.

Broil for 1-2 minutes.

Then flip sliced French bread over and brush with another tablespoon olive oil.

Broil for another minute or so.

Top toasted crostini with tomato, basil, mozzarella mixture.

Return to oven @ 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes until mozzarella has softened OR if you’re preparing other food just transfer to serving platter and set oven to lowest setting and place platter in over up till an hour to keep warm (mozzarella will soften). When ready to serve..

Drizzle with balsamic glaze, garnish with basil and enjoy!