Tomato and Basil Bruschetta

Ingredients:

• 8 ripe Roma tomatoes, gently rubbed under cold running water, chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic, gently rubbed under cold running water, minced
• 1/2 cup onion, scrubbed with clean vegetable brush under running water, chopped
• 8 fresh basil leaves, gently rubbed under cold running water, chopped OR 1 teaspoon dried basil  
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 loaf French-style bread, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices  

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mozzarella
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare ingredients: Wash hands with soap and water. Gently rub tomatoes, garlic, onion, and basil under cold running water. Chop ingredients.
2. Make tomato mixture: In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, garlic, onion, basil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently and set aside.
3. Prepare bread: Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
4. Broil bread: Preheat oven to broil. Broil bread for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown. Watch closely as bread will toast quickly.
5. Assemble bruschetta: Top each slice of toasted bread with tomato mixture.
6. Optional additions: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped mozzarella, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
7. Serve: Serve immediately. Store leftover tomato mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped mozzarella, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• For a sweeter taste: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the tomato mixture.
• For a richer texture: Add a dollop of ricotta cheese or goat cheese to the tomato mixture.

Enjoy your delicious Bruschetta!