Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Ingredients

• Baguette or ciabatta bread 1
• Ripe tomatoes (e.g., vine or plum) 300g
• Garlic cloves 2
• Fresh basil leaves 15g
• Extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp
• Balsamic glaze (optional) 1 tbsp
• Salt 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper 1/4 tsp

Method

1. Preheat your grill or oven to a medium-high heat.
2. Slice the bread into 1cm thick pieces. You should get about 8-12 slices depending on the bread size.
3. Toast the bread slices under the grill or in the oven until golden brown and crisp on both sides. This will take approximately 5-8 minutes, turning halfway.
4. While the bread is toasting, finely chop the ripe tomatoes. Place them in a medium bowl.
5. Peel and finely mince one garlic clove. Finely chop the fresh basil leaves. Add both to the bowl with the tomatoes.
6. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil over the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
7. Once the bread is toasted, immediately rub the cut side of the remaining whole garlic clove over the warm surface of each slice. This imparts a subtle garlic flavour.
8. Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each garlic-rubbed toast.
9. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the balsamic glaze, if using.
10. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp.