Easy Summer Appetizer

Looking for a quick and tasty dish to impress your guests this summer? This Easy Summer Appetizer is perfect for warm weather gatherings. It combines fresh ingredients to create a vibrant dish that is simple to make and pleasing to the palate.

Why Make This Recipe

This appetizer is perfect for summer because it highlights fresh tomatoes and basil, which are in season. It’s light, flavorful, and can be prepared in just minutes. Plus, it uses ingredients that you likely already have at home. It’s a great way to kick off a summer gathering or enjoy a simple evening snack.

How to Make Easy Summer Appetizer

Making this Easy Summer Appetizer is simple and quick. Just follow these easy steps:

Ingredients

Bread
Extra virgin olive oil
Red pepper flakes
Tomatoes
Fresh basil
Kosher salt
Flaky sea salt
Balsamic vinegar
Garlic clove

Directions

Toast the bread until golden brown.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with red pepper flakes.
Rub the toasted bread with a garlic clove for flavor.
Top the bread with diced tomatoes and fresh basil.
Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with kosher salt and flaky sea salt.
Serve immediately.

How to Serve Easy Summer Appetizer

Serve this appetizer on a large platter or individual plates. You can enjoy it alongside drinks or as a starter before a meal. Its colorful presentation will surely catch the attention of your guests.

How to Store Easy Summer Appetizer

This appetizer is best served fresh, but if you need to store it, keep the components separate. Store any leftover diced tomatoes and basil in the refrigerator, and don’t assemble them on the bread until you’re ready to serve again to avoid sogginess.

Tips to Make Easy Summer Appetizer

Use fresh, high-quality bread for the best flavor.
Choose ripe tomatoes for sweetness and juiciness.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Drizzle balsamic vinegar right before serving for the best taste.

Variation

You can switch things up by adding other toppings like mozzarella cheese or avocado. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for additional flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as baguette, ciabatta, or even gluten-free options.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh basil?
A: If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil as a substitute, but use it sparingly.

Q: Can I make this appetizer in advance?
A: It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Just assemble right before serving.

Enjoy this Easy Summer Appetizer at your next gathering or a relaxing evening at home! Your guests will love the fresh flavors and simple preparation.