Serves 6, 30mins Preparation, 1hour chilling

This classic Italian appetizer is a perfect way to capture the flavours of garden ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic and olive oil.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf crusty baguette • 8 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped and drained • Half a small red onion, finely chopped • 2 to 3 cloves of crushed garlic • 6 to 8 leaves of fresh basil, finely chopped or chiffonade • 30ml balsamic vinegar • 60ml to 80ml extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. In a large bowl, mix the onions, tomatoes, garlic and basil using a large metal spoon, taking care not to mash or break up the tomatoes too much.
2. Add the balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix the contents again.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour. This will allow the flavours to soak and blend together.
5. Slice the baguette loaf diagonally, into thick slices and lightly toast the slices until they are light brown on both sides.
6. Serve the mixture on the warm slices of bread. If you prefer the mixture at room temperature, remove from the fridge half an hour before serving.