Catalan-style Garlic Tomato Bread (Pa amb tomàquet)

How to Make

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the bread into thick slices, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Place the slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool.

• Step 2: Cut the garlic cloves in half. Take one garlic half and rub it vigorously over one side of each bread slice. The garlic should release its aroma and flavor onto the bread. Repeat with the remaining garlic halves and bread slices.

• Step 3: Cut the tomatoes in half crosswise. Take one tomato half and rub it over the garlic-rubbed side of each bread slice. The tomato flesh should grate against the bread, leaving behind some pulp and juice. Repeat with the remaining tomato halves and bread slices.

• Step 4: Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and garlic-rubbed side of each bread slice. The bread should soak up the oil, becoming slightly moist but not soggy.

• Step 5: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over each slice, to taste. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference.

• Step 6: At this point, you can add optional toppings. Arrange slices of cured meats, cheese, or olives on top of the bread slices, if desired.

• Step 7: Serve the Pa amb tomàquet immediately, while the bread is still warm and crispy.