Garden-Fresh Bruschetta (Taste of Home)

Need to use up some tomatoes or have a summer BBQ or potluck to attend? This appetizer will win raves at any occasion.This recipe came from a Taste of Home magazine's 2009 cookbook. It was submitted by Rachel Garcia. The beauty of this brushetta is that it is a hint of garlic but basically is just a fresh garden tomato taste. If you are a garlic person don't just rub the bread with it but mince it in as well. This brushetta will appeal to a wide variety as it is not overly spicy. If you like you can add good quality parmesan shavings. Enjoy! ChefDLH

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 14
• Yields: 14 brushetta pieces

Ingredients

• 1  garlic clove, peeled and halved
• 14  slices  French bread (3/4 inch thick)
• 4  medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped red onion
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1  tablespoon  minced fresh basil
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 14  fresh basil leaves (to top)
•  parmesan cheese, shavings (optional- to top)

Directions

1. Rub cut side of garlic over one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place bread garlic side down on an ungreased baking sheet.
3. Bake at 350° for 5 minutes on each side or until lightly browned.
4. In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, oil, minced basil, salt and pepper.
5. spoon about 2 tablespoons onto each piece of toast.
6. Top each with a basil leaf.
7. Top with optional Parmesan if you like as well.