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Crostini, those delightful little toasted bread bites topped with a variety of flavors, are a quintessential part of Italian cuisine. Their crisp texture and versatility make them an ideal appetizer for any gathering or celebration, whether it’s a casual get-together with friends, a festive holiday party, or an elegant dinner. Among the myriad of topping options, the Garlicky Bliss Tomato Crostini stands out as a refreshing and vibrant choice that perfectly marries the essence of Mediterranean flavors with simplicity and ease of preparation.

Roasted Garlic Tomato Crostini

Discover the delicious world of Italian crostini with this easy and vibrant Garlicky Bliss Tomato Crostini recipe. Featuring fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic roasted garlic, and fragrant basil, this dish is perfect for any gathering. The crunchy toasted baguette serves as the perfect base for these flavorful toppings, creating a delightful appetizer that bursts with Mediterranean essence. Simple to prepare, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that showcases the joys of seasonal cooking. Enjoy the taste of Italy today!

Ingredients
  

1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 head of garlic

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in aluminum foil, and roast for about 30-35 minutes, until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Allow to cool before handling.

    Prepare the Tomatoes: In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, chopped basil, and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine and set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.

      Toast the Baguette: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp.

        Mash the Garlic: Once the roasted garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the soft cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Use a fork to mash them into a smooth paste.

          Assemble the Crostini: Spread a thin layer of roasted garlic onto each toasted baguette slice. Top generously with the marinated cherry tomato mixture. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra savory kick.

            Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and garnish with additional basil if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of flavors!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8