🍅 Tomato Basil Mozzarella Toasts
These easy-to-make, Italian-inspired toasts feature crusty bread layered with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil – finished with a garlicky olive oil drizzle. Toasty, tangy, and totally irresistible.
📝 Ingredients (Makes 8 slices):
- 8 slices crusty bread (sourdough, baguette, Italian, ciabatta, etc.)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella (or ~1½ cups shredded)
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or turn on the broiler.
- Toast the bread:
Lightly brush each slice of bread with olive oil on both sides. Toast in the oven or on a skillet until just golden and crispy (about 5 minutes). - Rub with garlic (optional but recommended):
For extra flavor, gently rub the warm toasts with a cut garlic clove. - Layer the ingredients:
On each toasted slice:- Add a few slices of tomato
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano
- Place a slice (or small pile) of mozzarella cheese on top
- Broil or bake:
Return to oven and broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. - Finish and serve:
Top with chopped fresh basil and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes 8 toasts – serves 4 as a side/appetizer, or 2–3 as a light main dish.
🔥 Chef’s Notes & Tips:
- Use heirloom or Roma tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Add balsamic glaze or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-tangy finish.
- Want more kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes before toasting.
- Swap in burrata or goat cheese for a different twist.
- Make it heartier: add avocado slices, arugula, or sliced prosciutto.
🧪 Nutritional Info (Per Toast) [approximate]:
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbs: 14g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene (an antioxidant) and vitamin C.
- Mozzarella provides calcium and protein.
- Basil adds anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- A lighter, wholesome alternative to pizza with less grease and processed carbs.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble and broil just before serving to keep the toast crisp.
Q: Can I use a toaster oven or air fryer?
A: Yes! Both work great for melting the cheese and crisping the bread.
Q: What kind of bread works best?
A: Sourdough or Italian bread holds up best, but any rustic or artisan bread will work.
Q: Vegan version?
A: Use vegan mozzarella or cashew cheese, and skip the optional balsamic glaze if it contains honey.