Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the topping
2 cups ripe tomatoes finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the bread base
1 French baguette or Italian loaf sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
1 garlic clove (halved, for rubbing on toast)

Step-by-step method

Step 1: In a bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for 5 minutes

Step 2: Heat a grill pan or tawa and lightly brush both sides of bread slices with olive oil

Step 3: Toast the bread slices on medium heat for 1–2 minutes each side until golden and crisp

Step 4: Rub one side of the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove for extra flavor

Step 5: Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the garlic-rubbed side of each toast and serve immediately

Manish Tip: Use day-old bread for best crispiness and try adding chopped olives or feta for a twist in flavor

Nutrition values (per serving)