Pane e Pomodoro

(Crusted Bread with Tomatoes)

Lina Sorrentino, Napoli

A simple alternative option to Bruschetta.

(Yield: 12+ servings)

1 day-old Italian bread loaf

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 tomatoes (sliced ¼-inch thick)

3 garlic cloves (sliced thin)

6 large fresh basil leaves (chiffonade)

salt and freshly ground pepper

1. Slice bread to 1-inch rounds and brush entire surface with olive oil.

2.Put slices on broil pan and broil at 400°F until golden (approx. 4 minutes), making sure they do not burn.

3.Remove from oven and immediately layer.

4.Add 2 tomato slices, a few garlic slices, some basil and season with salt and pepper and a final drizzle of olive oil.

Serve warm as a great appetizer (optional, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese).