Craving something simple yet packed with flavor? This garlic toast with balsamic tomatoes is your go-to recipe. With crisp, golden bread topped with juicy, tangy tomatoes and a hint of garlic, it’s the perfect combination for a quick snack or a delightful side dish. Enjoy a burst of freshness and taste with every bite.
Steps
- Arrange four slices of hearty bread on a baking sheet. Cut a large clove of garlic in half and rub its cut side over the bread’s surface. Pour olive oil into a small dish and brush it over the bread, reserving the garlic and remaining oil for later.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding the leftover olive oil once it’s hot. Add a pint of grape tomatoes to the skillet, cooking until they blister and begin to lose shape, stirring occasionally. While the tomatoes cook, mince the reserved garlic clove.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it softens. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add balsamic vinegar and crushed dried rosemary, stirring to dissolve browned bits and thicken the mixture slightly.
- Lower the heat further and add butter and a pinch of salt to the skillet, stirring until the butter melts. Rinse and drain a can of Cannellini beans, then add them to the skillet with the tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Preheat the oven to broil and place the baking sheet with the bread inside. Broil until the bread is golden brown, watching closely to avoid burning. This may take only a few minutes depending on the oven’s broiler position.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of the tomato and bean mixture on each slice of bread. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before enjoying.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of hearty bread
- 1 large garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pint grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Pinch of salt
- 15 oz. can of Cannellini beans
- 2 teaspoons Parmesan cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1397.52 kcal | Carbohydrates: 196.92 g | Protein: 49.6 g | Fat: 48.2 g | Sodium: 2351.32 mg | Fiber: 37.4 g
FAQ
- What type of bread is best for this recipe?
- A sturdy artisan bread works best for this dish as it holds up well to the saucy balsamic tomatoes and white beans. Alternatively, you can use pasta as a base or even make your own no-knead bread for an economical option.
- How can I serve Garlic Toast with Balsamic Tomatoes and White Beans?
- While delicious on its own, you can serve this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. Despite its light appearance, it’s quite filling.
- What alternatives can I use if I don’t have grape tomatoes?
- If grape tomatoes are unavailable, you can use cherry tomatoes or any small, sweet tomato variety. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- While the components taste best when freshly prepared, you can make the balsamic tomatoes and beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them and toast the bread before serving.
- What if I don’t have Cannellini beans?
- If you don’t have Cannellini beans, you can substitute them with other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans. These will still complement the flavors well.
- Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
- Yes, to make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be flavorful without the butter, but you can substitute it with a plant-based margarine if needed.
Tips
- Choose Sturdy Bread: Opt for a robust artisan bread to support the saucy balsamic tomatoes and beans. Alternatively, consider serving the mixture over pasta if you’re not in the mood for toast.
- Crush Dried Rosemary: Before adding dried rosemary to your dish, crush it between your fingers to ensure there are no sharp bits and to enhance the release of its flavorful oils.
- Monitor the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the bread while it’s under the broiler to prevent burning. It should only take a few minutes to achieve a golden brown surface.
- Make it a Meal: For a more complete meal, pair the garlic toast with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies, as the dish is more satisfying than it might initially seem.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small brush (for brushing olive oil on the bread)
- Large skillet
