Ingredients
- Bread: 7 thick slices of rustic country-style loaf, baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough (day-old bread preferred)
- Tomatoes: 4-5 large ripe tomatoes (Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom varieties)
- Garlic: 3-4 fresh garlic cloves
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 7-9 tablespoons Spanish EVOO (Arbequina or Picual variety)
- Salt: Flaky sea salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Slice each tomato in half horizontally
- Using a box grater with large holes, grate the cut side of each tomato half
- Press the tomato against the grater until only the skin remains in your hand
- Collect the grated pulp in a bowl and set aside
Step 2: Toast the Bread
- Grilling: Place on grill or grill pan until golden-brown on both sides
- Oven: Arrange on baking sheet and toast at 200°C (400°F) for a few minutes per side
- Pan-frying: Toast in a dry, hot skillet until crisp and golden
- Remove from heat when exterior is crisp and golden-brown
Step 3: Add Garlic
- Cut garlic cloves in half to expose the interior
- While bread is still warm, gently rub the cut side of garlic across the toasted surface
- Use light pressure for subtle flavor or press harder for more pronounced garlic taste
Step 4: Apply Tomato
- Spoon the grated tomato pulp generously onto each slice
- Spread evenly to the edges of the bread
- Ensure the pulp and juice soak into the toast
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Drizzle each slice with approximately 1-1.5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Ensure the oil coats the tomato pulp and soaks into the bread
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top
- Serve immediately while the toast is still warm
Notes
- This dish must be assembled immediately before serving to maintain the contrast between warm, crisp toast and fresh tomato
- Best enjoyed as a breakfast dish, light lunch, or tapa
- Pairs excellently with Spanish cured meats, anchovies, or Manchego cheese as optional toppings
- Prep Time: 12
- Cook Time: 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 285