The Best Picnic Foods Around the Globe

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© Getty Images / Anna_Shepulova

Bruschetta - Italy

Direction: Italy! Who hasn't tried and loved this refreshing antipasto, made with little more than fresh, ripe tomatoes and basil leaves atop slices of grilled bread rubbed with garlic. Here's a quick recipe anyone can make:

Serves 4

• 8 ripe plum tomatoes, deseeded and diced
  
• 1 baguette or Italian bread loaf, cut into thick slices
  
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced + 1/2 peeled and cut garlic clove for rubbing
• 1 tbsp olive oil + more for brushing
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 6 to 8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toast the baguette slices in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 5-6 minutes. Rub one side of the slices with 1/2 of a cut garlic clove, and brush with olive oil.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, minced garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar and thinly sliced basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Top the baguette slices evenly with the tomato mixture, and serve immediately.

Note: For picnic purposes, you can make the tomato mixture 1 hour ahead and simply transport it in a sealed tupperware with the toasted baguette slices in a separate container or bag. Bring a spoon, and serve on site!