Pan con Tomate (Toast with Tomato)

  • Total time - 5 minutes
  • Prep time - 5 minutes
  • Cooking time - 0 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Country: Spain
Pan con Tomate (Toast with Tomato)

Pan con Tomate is a dish that proves that simple food can be the most satisfying. While it may seem like a basic recipe, the order and method of preparation are important. The toasting of the bread, the gentle rubbing of the garlic, and the generous spread of the fresh tomato are all essential steps to create the right balance of flavors and textures. This recipe provides a traditional approach to making this delightful Spanish classic, which can be easily adapted to your personal taste. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a quick snack, or as part of a larger tapas spread, it's a dish that never fails to please.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 4 slices rustic bread, like ciabatta or baguette
  • 2 pieces very ripe tomatoes
  • 1 piece garlic clove
  • extra virgin olive oil, high-quality
  • sea salt flakes

Instructions

Toast the Bread

Toast the slices of bread until they are golden and crispy. This can be done in a toaster, on a grill, or in a dry pan. The toast should be firm enough to hold up to the tomato without becoming soggy.

Prepare the Tomato and Garlic

Slice the garlic clove in half. Take one half and gently rub the cut side over the surface of each slice of toasted bread. This will leave a delicate aroma without being overpowering.

Cut the ripe tomatoes in half. Using a grater, grate the tomato halves over a bowl to collect the pulp and juice. Discard the tomato skins.

Assemble and Serve

Spoon a generous amount of the grated tomato pulp onto each slice of bread, spreading it evenly. The goal is a thick, juicy layer of tomato.

Drizzle each slice with a good amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt flakes. Serve immediately, as it is best enjoyed when the bread is still warm and crispy.