Description
Pan con Tomate (Spanish Tomato Bread) is a traditional Catalan dish that combines crispy toasted bread with fresh, juicy tomatoes, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect as a tapa or appetizer, this simple yet flavorful dish is a Mediterranean delight that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys light, fresh, and delicious meals.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Tomatoes:
3 large Roma tomatoes (or 3 small beefsteak tomatoes)
Kosher or sea salt
For the Bread:
1 loaf ciabatta or similar-style rustic bread (or buns)
1 large garlic clove, halved lengthwise
Extra virgin olive oil
Flaky salt, such as Maldon
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). -
Prepare the tomatoes:
Cut off the top end of the tomatoes. Grate the tomatoes using a box grater, placing the cut side of the tomatoes over the large holes of the grater. Use a flat hand to grate the pulp out, leaving the peel behind. Drizzle the grated tomato pulp with a little olive oil and season with a few pinches of Kosher or sea salt. Set the tomato mixture aside. -
Prepare the bread:
Slice the ciabatta loaf in half horizontally, then cut it into 4-inch pieces. If using a loaf-style bread, slice it fairly thick to ensure it can hold the tomato topping without getting soggy. -
Toast the bread:
Place the bread pieces on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden and crispy, about 8-12 minutes. The time may vary depending on the type of bread and the thickness, so keep an eye on it. -
Rub with garlic:
Once the bread is toasted, rub the cut sides of the garlic clove onto the top surface of each warm slice. This adds a nice, subtle garlic flavor. -
Assemble the dish:
Top each toasted bread slice with the grated tomato pulp. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt. -
Serve immediately:
Serve the Pan con Tomate right away while the bread is still warm and crunchy. Enjoy!
Notes
- Add toppings: You can top the tomato bread with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added flavor.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Manchego or goat cheese on top of the tomatoes before serving can add a delicious richness to the dish.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of heat.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
