# What you'll need:
→ Toasts
01 - 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally into 8 pieces (approximately 1/2-inch thick)
02 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
→ Topping
03 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
04 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ To Serve
09 - 1 small garlic clove, peeled (for rubbing toast)
10 - Extra basil leaves for garnish (optional)
11 - Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
# Preparation steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange the baguette slices in a diagonal line on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
03 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
04 - While toasts bake, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss gently and set aside.
05 - Remove toasted baguette slices from oven. While warm, rub one side of each slice with peeled garlic clove.
06 - Generously spoon the tomato mixture onto each toast. Arrange on a serving platter in a diagonal line for an elegant presentation.
07 - Garnish with extra basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
