Catalan Tomato Bread (Pa amb Tomàquet) — Simple and Delicious Appetizer
This classic Catalan appetizer is incredibly simple yet a crowd-pleaser, especially when hunger strikes during a barbecue but the grill is too hot for cooking meat. The bread can be quickly toasted over high heat—just be careful as it toasts fast!
🕒 Prep Time: 10 min
🍽️ Yields: 3 servings
🥄 Ingredients
- 🍞 3 slices rustic country bread
- 🍅 3 ripe, sweet tomatoes
- 🧄 1 garlic clove
- 🫒 3 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 🧂 Sea salt, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- 🔥 Toast the bread slices on the grill, in the oven, or a toaster until crisp.
- 🍅 Cut the tomatoes in half and grate them, discarding the skin.
- 🧄 Rub the toasted bread generously with the garlic clove.
- 🫒 Drizzle a little olive oil over each slice.
- 🍅 Spread the grated tomato pulp evenly over each slice.
- 🧂 Sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
- ⏳ Let the bread sit for a few minutes to absorb the tomato juices and soften slightly.
- 🍽️ Serve plain or topped with thin slices of jamón or sardine fillets for extra flavor.
Tip: If you don’t have a grater, rub the tomato halves directly onto the toasted bread to soak the juice. Make sure the tomatoes are very ripe for best results.
💡 Tips
- Use ripe, sweet tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- Toast bread just until crisp; it will soften once topped.
- Pair with cured meats or seafood for a gourmet touch.
🎉 Perfect For
- Summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings
- Quick and easy appetizers
- Mediterranean-inspired meals
📝 Final Thoughts
Pa amb Tomàquet is a rustic yet elegant way to enjoy simple ingredients at their best. This Catalan staple combines crispy bread, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant garlic and olive oil to satisfy hunger quickly and deliciously.