Mediterranean Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

🍅 Mediterranean Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes

🍴 Servings: 4–6

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf crusty Italian or French bread (or ciabatta), sliced in half lengthwise

• 3–4 ripe tomatoes, diced (Roma or cherry tomatoes work well)

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced or grated

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped or torn

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra zing)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Tomato Topping:
   In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Toast the Bread:
   Place the sliced bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until edges start to crisp.

4. Add Toppings:
   Remove the bread from the oven. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture generously over each half. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.

5. Bake Again (Optional):
   Return to oven for another 5 minutes (especially if adding cheese) until warmed through and cheese melts slightly.

6. Serve:
   Slice into pieces and serve warm. Garnish with extra basil or a light drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, rub a raw garlic clove on the toasted bread before adding the toppings.

• Use day-old bread for a sturdier base.

• Add kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for a more Mediterranean twist.