Delicious Tomato and Cheese Toast with Basil Pesto

This delightful recipe combines the robust flavors of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy Parmesan cheese on a bed of toasted white bread. The star of the show is the homemade Pesto alla Genovese, made with fresh basil and walnuts, delivering a rich depth of flavor. A hint of garlic, ground cloves, and a touch of salt and black pepper elevate the dish, making it a feast for the senses. Ideal for a quick brunch or a sophisticated appetizer, this dish is both satisfying and visually appealing. With the crispiness of toasted bread and the freshness of herbs, it caters to a wide range of palates. Pesto alla Genovese not only pairs well with bread but complements the acidity of tomatoes beautifully. The use of high-quality olive oil adds a luxurious finish. Perfect for creating memorable moments with loved ones, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite. Prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors that offer both comfort and sophistication.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

20 slices white bread
5 tomatoes
1 clove garlic
Basil

Basil Pesto

2 bunches fresh basil
0.5 package Parmesan cheese
0.5 cup olive oil
Walnuts
Crushed cloves
Salt
Ground black pepper
Garlic cloves

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes into small pieces. Mince or crush the garlic clove and chop the basil finely. Mix them together in a bowl, adding a pinch of salt for flavor. Set aside.
Toast the Bread: Arrange the slices of white bread on a baking tray. Toast them in the oven until they are golden and crispy.
Make the Pesto: Chop the basil and grate the Parmesan. Combine them with walnuts in a blender. Add crushed garlic cloves according to your heat preference.
Blend Together: Add a little salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Blend the mixture thoroughly.
Add Olive Oil: As you blend, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Assembly: Spread a generous amount of pesto on each toasted bread slice.
Top with Tomato Mix: Evenly distribute the tomato mixture on top of the pesto-covered toasts.
Final Touches: Add a few basil leaves on top for garnish.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy while the bread is still crunchy and warm.
Repeat if Needed: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve additional on a platter. Enjoy!

Tips

For a Nut-Free Version: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds.
Cheese Swap: Use Romano cheese for a different flavor twist.
Storage: Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritions

Calories per serving: Approximately 300
Protein: 7g
Fats: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread.
Vegan Variation: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or a light vegetable soup.
Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine.

Best Places

Le Pain Quotidien - Known for handmade bread and organic ingredients. Location: 8 rue de Bac, Paris, France.
Talula's Table - Renowned for farm-to-table service and delicate flavors. Location: 102 W. State St., Kennett Square, USA.
Roberta's - Offers a rustic Italian experience with farm-fresh ingredients. Location: 261 Moore Street, Brooklyn, NYC, USA.
Bread & Butter - A small, cozy spot known for fresh artisan pastries. Location: 29 Rue de l'Église, Lyon, France.
The Breakfast Club - Famous for eclectic breakfast and toast items. Location: 11 Berwick Street, Soho, London, UK.
The Little Roaster - Intimate café serving quality coffee and toasts. Location: G/F, 22-24 Hokkaido Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
Moose Coffee - Offers a Northern American diner experience in a cafe setting. Location: 20 York Street, Manchester, UK.
Kettle's Yard - Blends art and culinary brilliance in a cafe. Location: Castle St, Cambridge, UK.
Laundromat Café - Popular for its colorful decor and delectable eats. Location: Austurstræti 9, Reykjavik, Iceland.
Honest Crust - Offers hand-prepared toasts with seasonal toppings. Location: Altrincham Market, Altrincham, UK.