Table of Contents
Introduction
There’s something about the Mediterranean tomato basil garlic bread that instantly elevates any meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a party snack, or a savory side, this crispy, juicy, herby bread delivers bold flavor and takes less than 20 minutes to make.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels rustic, homemade, and vibrant — combining toasted bread with garlic-infused olive oil, juicy tomato slices, fresh basil, and just a touch of oregano. If you’ve ever tasted a Caprese-style flatbread or Italian bruschetta, this is its toasted cousin.
This Mediterranean-style garlic bread is especially great when paired with light sides like the Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad or a bowl of comforting Basic Vegetable Soup.
Ingredients
To make your own mediterranean tomato basil garlic bread, you’ll need:
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1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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2 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced or diced
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¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
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½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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Optional: shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for extra flavor
Tip: Use day-old bread for best results — it toasts perfectly and holds the toppings without getting soggy.
How to Make Mediterranean Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
1. Preheat oven
Heat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Slice and arrange
Cut the baguette into slices about ½-inch thick. Lay them out on the tray, cut side up.
3. Mix garlic oil
In a small bowl, mix olive oil and minced garlic. Brush each bread slice generously.
4. Add tomatoes
Top each slice with 1–2 pieces of fresh tomato or a spoonful of diced tomato.
5. Season
Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and oregano if using.
6. Optional: Add cheese
If you want a melty finish, top with mozzarella or Parmesan.
7. Bake
Place in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the edges.
8. Garnish
Remove from oven and top with chopped fresh basil. Serve warm.
Why You’ll Love It
This garlic bread isn’t your average store-bought version. The mediterranean tomato basil garlic bread offers:
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Fresh flavors: Basil, garlic, and tomato are a timeless trio.
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Crispy bite: Toasted bread gives a perfect crunch.
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Quick prep: Done in less than 20 minutes.
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Versatile: Serve with soup, salad, pasta, or eat as a snack.
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Healthy ingredients: No butter, just olive oil and fresh produce.
Pair it with Homemade Tomato Sauce or even spoon some of that over it for a rustic twist.
Storage & Reheating
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Best fresh: It’s crispiest when served hot out of the oven.
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Leftovers: Can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 1 day.
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Reheating: Toast in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes.
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Freezer: Not ideal due to tomatoes, but you can freeze the bread slices with garlic oil only, then top later.
Tips & Variations
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Use heirloom tomatoes for a sweeter, colorful finish.
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Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.
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Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for Mediterranean depth.
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Swap basil for fresh oregano or thyme if desired.
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Use ciabatta or sourdough instead of baguette for a chewier texture.
Looking for more Mediterranean-inspired flavor? Try the Lemon Cream Cake for a sweet contrast to this savory toast.
Time & Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
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Total Time: 18–20 minutes
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Servings: 8–10 slices
Tools Needed
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Serrated knife
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Mixing bowl
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Pastry brush
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Oven or toaster oven
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Cutting board
Final Thoughts on Mediterranean Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
This mediterranean tomato basil garlic bread is what you make when you want a quick win. It’s fresh, flavorful, and feels like something from a cozy Italian café — with just a few ingredients and almost no effort.
Whether you’re entertaining, craving a savory snack, or looking for something light to go alongside soup or pasta, this recipe is a must-try. And with endless topping ideas, it never gets boring.
For more bold, fresh Mediterranean flavors, explore Delish’s Best Mediterranean Recipes for salads, breads, and mains inspired by the coast.
Mediterranean Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
A quick and flavorful Mediterranean appetizer made with toasted bread, fresh garlic, juicy tomatoes, olive oil, and basil. This tomato basil garlic bread is crispy, savory, and perfect for any meal.
- – Serrated knife
- Baking sheet
- – Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Mixing bowl
- – Oven or toaster oven
- Ingredients
- – 1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf
- – 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- – 3 tablespoons olive oil
- – 2 large ripe tomatoes (diced or sliced)
- – ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- – ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- – ½ teaspoon salt
- – ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- – Optional: shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the bread into ½-inch thick pieces and place on the sheet, cut side up.
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic with olive oil. Brush the mixture onto each bread slice.
- Top with tomato slices or diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and oregano if using.
- Add cheese if desired for a richer flavor.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until the bread is golden and edges are crisp.
- Remove from oven, top with chopped fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
– Best served fresh and warm.
– Use day-old bread for better texture and to avoid sogginess.
– Optional toppings include feta, balsamic glaze, or olives.
– Store leftovers in the fridge for 1 day and reheat in oven. Freezing not recommended with tomatoes.