Bruschetta on Garlic Bread

My mom showed me how to make these years ago, and it couldn't be easier to prepare. Fresh ingredients on delicious garlic bread is just a heavenly combination. It's perfect for a party because you can make a large batch of the topping ahead of time, as well as toasting baguette slices. 

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Yield: 25 slices, serves 6-10 as an appetizer

Ingredients:

For Garlic Bread:

1 French baguette

4 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Bruschetta Topping:

5 ripe tomatoes, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup red onion, chopped

salt + pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit with a rack in the top slot of the oven.

2. Using a bread knife, slice the baguette on the diagonal making half-inch thick slices and place on a baking sheet.  

3. Add all your ingredients for the garlic bread into a bowl and mix. Brush one side of each slice. Place the slices in the oven and toast for about 5 minutes (be careful not to over toast as they can become too crunchy). Take them out of the oven and let them fully cool.

4. In a bowl, mix all of the ingredients for your bruschetta topping.   

5. Arrange the toasted bread on a platter, garlic/olive oil side facing up. Either bring out a bowl of the bruschetta topping for people to put on their own, or do it for them right before serving. Enjoy!