Crostini with Tomato or Cheese

Small toasted bread with savory toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette or small Italian bread, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces

• 2–3 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped (for tomato version)

• 100 g grated or sliced cheese (mozzarella, provolone, or fontina) (for cheese version)

• 1–2 cloves garlic, halved

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Fresh basil leaves

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the bread: Arrange the bread slices on a baking tray. Toast for 5–7 minutes until slightly golden.

3. Rub with garlic: While warm, rub each slice with the cut side of the garlic cloves for flavor.

4. Top with ingredients:

   • Tomato version: Mix chopped tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Spoon onto the toasted bread.

   • Cheese version: Place sliced or grated cheese on the toasted bread. Optionally, broil for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbly.

5. Serve: Arrange on a plate, garnish with extra basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use multigrain or sourdough bread for a richer flavor.

• Add a touch of balsamic glaze for the tomato version.

• Mix tomato and cheese together for a Caprese-style crostini.

• Ideal as a light breakfast, appetizer, or snack.