Rustic Catalan Tomato Rubbed Bread

1. Toast the Bread

Start by toasting slices of crusty bread in a toaster or on a grill until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This toasting step is crucial because it enhances the texture and flavor of the bread, providing a perfect base for the toppings.

2. Rub with Garlic

Once your bread is toasted, take a garlic clove and rub it vigorously over the surface of each slice. The rough texture of the toast will help release the garlic's natural oils, imparting a subtle yet unmistakable flavor.

3. Rub with Tomatoes

Next, take your ripe tomatoes, cut them in half, and rub the cut sides directly onto the bread. The tomatoes should be juicy enough to release their juices and pulp, making the bread moist and slightly red. This step is essential as it melds the fresh taste of tomatoes with the crispiness of the bread.

4. Drizzle with Olive Oil

Drizzle the tomato-rubbed bread generously with high-quality olive oil. The oil will soak into the bread, adding richness and depth to each bite.

5. Season with Salt

Finally, season the bread with a sprinkle of salt to enhance all the flavors. Your rustic Catalan tomato-rubbed bread is now ready to be enjoyed.