Crispy baguette slices topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, arranged elegantly for an appetizer.
# Required Ingredients:
→ For the Toasts
01 - 1 French baguette, cut diagonally into 8 slices approximately 1/2 inch thick
02 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
→ For the Topping
03 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
04 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ To Serve
09 - 1 small garlic clove, peeled for rubbing on toast
10 - Extra basil leaves for garnish (optional)
11 - Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place the baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
03 - Bake the slices for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
04 - While the slices bake, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss gently and set aside.
05 - Remove the baked toasts from the oven. While still warm, gently rub one side of each slice with the peeled garlic clove.
06 - Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each toast and arrange them diagonally on a serving platter for an elegant presentation.
07 - Garnish with additional basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
