Charred tomato Bruschetta

By caligma

The crisp Italian styled toast is never better than when toasted on the grill. Make topping ahead and have a quick and delicious appetizer when guests arrive.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ripe tomatoes
• 18 baguette slices, each about 1/4 inch thick
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 Tbs. finely chopped fresh basil, plus whole leaves for garnish
• 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
• 1 garlic clove minced
• salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Prepare the grill for medium high heat

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

Grill the tomatoes over the hottest part of the grill, 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 flavors.

Top the bread with the tomato and garnish with the basil leaves.

Serves 6