Bruschetta with Mozzarella

Ingredients

• 2 cups halved grape tomatoes , well drained
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese , cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic , pressed
• 1.5 tablespoons olive oil , divided
• 0.5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 diagonals slices baguette , 1/2-inch thick
• fresh basil leaves for garnish , optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Place tomatoes, mozzarella, sliced basil, garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl, and fold until well combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. 2

   Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler. Brush baguette slices with remaining olive oil until lightly coated. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet; season with salt. Broil until lightly browned, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn.

3. 3

   Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted baguette immediately before serving, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.