Mediterranean Tomato Toast with Olive Oil and Za'atar
Elevate your snack time or appetizer game with this Mediterranean Tomato Toast recipe. Simple yet bursting with flavor, this dish features toasted bread topped with fresh, juicy roma tomatoes and drizzled with high-quality olive oil. Enhanced with the aromatic delight of za'atar spice, this dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table. Perfect as a light meal or a shared starter, this Toasted Bread with Tomato and Olive Oil is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients but offering maximum taste.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian or French bread
4 slices (thinly sliced)
Roma tomatoes
2 (thinly sliced)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (for drizzling)
Za'atar spice mix
1/2-1 teaspoon (as desired)
Salt
to taste (as needed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your toaster or oven broiler to medium-high heat. If using an oven, place a baking sheet at a distance to catch any drips.
2
Toast the Italian or French bread slices in the toaster until they are crispy and golden brown, being careful not to let them darken too much as they will be broiled later.
3
Meanwhile, wash and thinly slice the roma tomatoes, ensuring they are uniform in size for even distribution.
4
Once the bread is toasted, arrange the slices on a serving platter or baking sheet. Generously layer the tomato slices over each piece of bread, ensuring the bread is well covered.
5
Drizzle the olive oil generously over the tomatoes and use a basting brush or the back of a spoon to distribute it evenly.
6
Sprinkle the za'atar spice mix over the tomatoes, adjusting the amount to your taste preference. Add salt to taste, being mindful that the flavor should be balanced and not overly salty.
7
Transfer the prepared bread to the oven or under the broiler. Broil for 3-4 minutes, watching closely, until the edges of the bread are golden and crispy and the tomatoes have slightly softened.
8
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Serve warm as an inviting snack or appetizer, savoring the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Tomato Toast with Za'atar?
It is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring toasted bread topped with fresh roma tomatoes, high-quality olive oil, and aromatic Za'atar spice.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Italian or French bread slices are recommended for their texture and ability to get crispy when toasted.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Roma tomatoes are ideal for this recipe because they are juicy and easy to slice uniformly.
What is Za'atar?
Za'atar is a traditional Mediterranean spice blend typically containing herbs like thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 4 slices of bread, which can serve 2 to 4 people depending on whether it is a snack or appetizer.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and also vegan-friendly.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of olive oil to be drizzled over the tomatoes.
How long should I broil the toast?
Broil the prepared toast for 3-4 minutes until the edges are golden and the tomatoes have softened.
Should I toast the bread before adding toppings?
Yes, toast the bread in a toaster until golden brown before adding the tomatoes and oil to ensure maximum crunch.
Can I make this recipe in an oven?
Yes, you can use an oven broiler set to medium-high heat to finish the toast.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
The roma tomatoes should be washed and thinly sliced to ensure they cover the bread evenly.
Can I adjust the amount of Za'atar used?
Yes, you can use between 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Za'atar spice mix according to your personal taste preference.
Do I need to add salt?
Salt is added to taste to help balance the flavors of the fresh tomatoes and olive oil.
How do I distribute the olive oil evenly?
You can use a basting brush or the back of a spoon to spread the oil across the tomato slices.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.
What is the first step in making this toast?
The first step is to preheat your toaster or oven broiler to medium-high heat.
Can I serve this cold?
While it is best served warm after broiling, it can be eaten at room temperature as well.
Is this dish similar to bruschetta?
Yes, it is very similar to a Mediterranean style of bruschetta.
How do I prevent the bread from burning?
Watch the toast closely while it is under the broiler, as it only takes 3-4 minutes to brown.
Can I use a different type of tomato?
While Roma is suggested, you can use any fresh, ripe tomatoes you have on hand.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a toaster or oven, a knife for slicing, and a baking sheet if using the oven.
Should I peel the tomatoes?
No, the tomatoes should be sliced with the skin on for better texture and nutritional value.
How thick should the bread slices be?
The bread should be thinly sliced to ensure it becomes crispy throughout.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is a simple and mild-flavored snack that most children enjoy.
Can I add cheese to this toast?
While the basic recipe doesn't call for it, you could add feta or mozzarella for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
It is best enjoyed fresh, as the bread may become soggy if stored with the tomatoes on top.
Can I use dried herbs instead of Za'atar?
If you don't have Za'atar, a mix of dried thyme and sesame seeds can be used as a substitute.
Is extra virgin olive oil necessary?
High-quality olive oil is recommended to provide the best Mediterranean flavor profile.
How long does it take to prep the ingredients?
Prep time is very minimal, usually taking less than 5 minutes to slice the bread and tomatoes.
What makes this 'Mediterranean'?
The combination of crusty bread, fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and the traditional Middle Eastern Za'atar spice defines its Mediterranean character.