Charred-Tomato Bruschetta

By á-174942

Ingredients

• 1 pound ripe tomatoes
• 18 baguette slices - (abt 1/4" thick)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons finely-chopped fresh basil plus
• some whole leaves for garnish
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 garlic clove minced
• Salt to taste
• Freshly-ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat.

Brush the tomatoes and bread slices lightly and evenly with the olive oil.

Grill the tomatoes over the hottest part of a charcoal fire or directly over the heat elements of a gas grill, turning often, until charred on all sides and starting to soften, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board.

Grill the bread slices, turning once, until dark grill marks appear and the bread is crisp, 3 to 4 minutes total.

Core the tomatoes, then chop them and their charred peels. Transfer to a bowl. Stir in the chopped basil, vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper. Let stand for 30 to 60 minutes to develop the flavors.

Top the bread slices with the tomatoes and garnish with basil leaves.

This recipe yields 6 servings.