This week’s favorite is a simple summer classic that’s perfect for warm evenings, backyard gatherings or a light appetizer before dinner.

Fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil are piled onto grilled bread that has been lightly rubbed with fresh garlic while still warm. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, bringing a balance of sweetness and tang to every bite.

Grilled Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

Ingredients

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 baguette or rustic loaf, sliced
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and cut in half
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
  • While the grill is preheating, combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper in a bowl.
  • Place the bread slices on the grill and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until lightly toasted with grill marks.
  • While the bread is still warm, rub one side of each slice with the cut side of the garlic clove.
  • Spoon the tomato mixture onto the grilled bread.
  • Finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

It’s a nice appetizer if you already have your grill preheated for your main dish.

If you’d like even more garlic flavor, simply mince one clove of garlic and stir it into the tomato and basil mixture before serving.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how it showcases fresh summer tomatoes. It’s simple, colorful and lets seasonal ingredients shine.

Enjoy!