This recipe showcases an authentic Spanish classic, Tomato Bread. It brings together the simplicity of rustic bread with the robust flavors of ripe tomatoes and garlic, topped off with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It's a delightfully easy dish that will transport you to the heart of Spain with every bite.
Photos of Pan con Tomate Recipe
The ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most homes. However, for the best experience, choose a rustic loaf with a hearty texture, as it absorbs the tomato juices and olive oil beautifully. Also, ripe, medium-sized tomatoes are ideal for this recipe. The flavor of such tomatoes is just right, not too sweet or tangy, to complement the rest of the ingredients.
Ingredients for Spanish Tomato Bread
Rustic loaf: A type of bread with a distinct, thick, and crunchy crust, commonly found in bakeries. Its hearty texture makes it perfect for this dish.
Garlic: Adds a savory depth to the dish. When rubbed on the toasted surface of the bread, it infuses its flavor delicately.
Ripe medium tomatoes: The star of the dish. They're rubbed on the bread after the garlic, giving the bread a tangy, sweet flavor.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Any type of coarse salt can be used in this recipe.
Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish. Freshly cracked black pepper offers the best flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity, peppery note and a beautiful gloss to the tomato bread.
One reader, Bat Coon says:
This Spanish tomato bread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the toasted rustic loaf, fresh tomatoes, and garlic creates a burst of flavor that's simply irresistible. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through. It's a delightful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Key Techniques for Perfect Spanish Tomato Bread
How to toast the bread: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the bread on a baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes, or until slightly crisp on top and barely golden. Remove from the oven.
How to rub the garlic: While the bread is still hot, lightly rub the garlic cloves over the surface to infuse the flavor.
How to rub the tomatoes: After rubbing the garlic, rub the tomato halves over the tops of the toasted bread to impart their juices and flavor.
How to season and serve: Sprinkle the bread with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately while still warm.
How To Make Pan con Tomate
This Spanish bread recipe is relished with tomatoes and garlic for a savory treat. Try this pan con tomate at home for lunch and enjoy a healthy meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16ozrustic loaf
- 3clovesgarlic,peeled and left whole
- 3ripe medium tomatoes,cut in half
- kosher salt,to taste
- freshly cracked black pepper
- 4tspextra virgin olive oil
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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Place bread on a baking sheet and place in the oven to lightly toast for about 5 minutes, or until slightly crisp on top and barely golden; remove from the oven.
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While still hot, lightly rub the garlic cloves over the surface.
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Then rub the tomato halves over the tops of the toasted bread.
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Sprinkle with salt and pepper and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil; serve immediately while still warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 182.05kcal
- Fat: 4.20g
- Saturated Fat: 0.77g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.00g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.13g
- Carbohydrates: 29.97g
- Fiber: 2.93g
- Sugar: 4.58g
- Protein: 6.59g
- Sodium: 290.64mg
- Calcium: 83.49mg
- Potassium: 218.44mg
- Iron: 2.17mg
- Vitamin A: 19.46µg
- Vitamin C: 6.78mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Spanish Tomato Bread Success
When rubbing the garlic and tomatoes onto the toasted bread, make sure to do it while the bread is still hot. This allows the flavors to seep into the bread more effectively, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, using ripe tomatoes will provide a sweeter and more robust flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Spanish Tomato Bread Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use quality tools: Invest in sharp knives and efficient kitchen gadgets to make the prep work quicker and easier.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and utensils.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the instructions to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes later on.
Efficient cleanup: Clean as you go to prevent a pile-up of dishes and maintain an organized cooking environment.
Minimize distractions: Focus on the task at hand to work more efficiently and avoid mistakes that could cost you time.
Prioritize tasks: Identify the most time-sensitive steps and tackle them first to ensure everything comes together smoothly.
Substitute Ingredients For Pan con Tomate Recipe
rustic loaf - Substitute with baguette: A baguette can be used as a substitute for a rustic loaf in this recipe, as it has a similar texture and crust, and will work well for toasting and holding the toppings.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic to provide a milder, sweeter flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for tomatoes to add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor, while still providing a juicy and colorful topping for the bread.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra virgin olive oil, providing a similar richness and flavor profile, while also offering a high smoke point for toasting the bread.
How to Beautifully Present Pan Con Tomate
Elevate the rustic loaf: Choose a high-quality, artisanal rustic loaf with a crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior. The bread should be the star of the dish, so select a loaf that is visually appealing and has a robust flavor profile.
Garlic infusion: Infuse the bread with the aromatic essence of garlic by rubbing the cloves over the surface while it's still warm. This will impart a subtle yet delightful garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Tomato artistry: Select ripe, medium-sized tomatoes with vibrant colors and rich, juicy flesh. The tomatoes should be at the peak of ripeness to ensure a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. Slice them in a way that showcases their natural beauty and arrange them artfully on the bread.
Season with finesse: Sprinkle the dish with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication. The seasoning should be delicately balanced to complement the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the savory notes of the bread.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil: Use a high-quality, flavorful extra virgin olive oil to add a luxurious touch to the dish. The oil should be drizzled over the bread in a precise and artistic manner, enhancing both the visual appeal and the taste of the final presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spanish Tomato Bread
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and toasting the bread.
- Baking sheet: Used to place the bread in the oven for toasting.
- Garlic cloves: Used to rub over the toasted bread to infuse it with garlic flavor.
- Tomatoes: Ripe medium tomatoes are used to rub over the bread, adding a burst of fresh flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Drizzled over the bread to add richness and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Spanish Tomato Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spanish tomato bread on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's warm and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the bread's texture and bring out the flavors of the garlic and tomato.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the spanish tomato bread in aluminum foil before placing it in the oven. This will help the bread retain its moisture and prevent it from becoming too crispy. Heat it for about 7-10 minutes, or until it's warmed through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover spanish tomato bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm and slightly soft. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it can become tough and rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your spanish tomato bread. Simply place the bread on the toaster oven rack and heat it for about 3-5 minutes, or until it's warm and slightly crispy. This method is perfect for those who want a quick and easy way to reheat their bread without using a full-sized oven.
For a unique twist, try grilling your leftover spanish tomato bread. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the bread on the grates. Grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's warm and slightly charred. This method will add a smoky flavor to the bread and give it a nice, crispy texture.
Interesting Fact About Spanish Tomato Bread
The Spanish tomato bread, also known as pan con tomate, is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in Catalonia. It is a simple yet delicious recipe that showcases the flavors of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. This dish is often served as a tapa or appetizer in Spain and is a popular choice for breakfast or a light snack. The tradition of rubbing garlic and tomatoes on bread dates back to the 18th century, and it is a staple in Spanish cuisine. It is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Is Making Spanish Tomato Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This Spanish tomato bread recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With simple and affordable ingredients like rustic loaf, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil, it offers a budget-friendly option for a delicious meal. The rustic loaf can be purchased at a reasonable price, and the other ingredients are commonly found in most households. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical choice. This recipe earns a solid 9/10 for its affordability and delightful flavors.
Is Spanish Tomato Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Spanish tomato bread recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it incorporates whole grain bread, fresh tomatoes, and heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it even more nutritious:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of bread, which can be high in calories and carbohydrates. Using a smaller portion of bread or opting for a whole grain variety with added fiber could help balance the nutritional profile.
- While garlic and tomatoes offer some vitamins and minerals, the recipe could benefit from the addition of other vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density.
- The salt content may be a concern for individuals watching their sodium intake, so using a reduced amount or substituting with herbs and spices could be beneficial.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the rustic loaf for a whole grain bread that is rich in fiber, such as whole wheat or sprouted grain bread. This will provide more nutrients and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Add a layer of mashed avocado or hummus to the bread before topping with the tomatoes. This will provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein to the dish.
- Include a variety of colorful vegetables as toppings, such as sliced bell peppers, red onions, or fresh basil leaves. This will add more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the recipe.
- Reduce the amount of salt used and experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on sodium. For example, you could sprinkle some dried oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika over the tomatoes before drizzling with olive oil.
Editor's Opinion on This Spanish Tomato Bread Recipe
This Spanish tomato bread recipe is a classic and simple dish that highlights the flavors of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. The toasting of the bread adds a delightful crunch, while the rubbing of garlic and tomatoes infuses the bread with a burst of flavor. The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish with its fruity and peppery notes. This recipe is a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
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Why trust this Pan con Tomate Recipe:
This recipe is a classic Spanish dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of rustic loaf, garlic, and ripe tomatoes creates a simple yet flavorful dish. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds a rich and authentic taste. The method of toasting the bread before rubbing it with garlic and tomatoes ensures a perfect texture and flavor. The kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance the overall taste. Trust in the traditional ingredients and techniques used in this recipe to bring the authentic flavors of Spanish cuisine to your table.
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