Ingredients

• 1  cup chopped red or yellow tomatoes (2 medium) and/or cherry tomatoes
• 1/2  cup chopped yellow sweet pepper (1 small)
• 1/2  cup lightly packed sweet basil leaves, stacked, rolled, and thinly sliced
• 1  clove garlic, minced
• 3  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4  teaspoon sea salt or salt
• 1/2  teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1  8-ounce loaf baguette-style French bread, ends trimmed and sliced 1/2 inch thick

Directions

1. For topping, in a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, yellow pepper, basil, garlic, 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, and the salt. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and the black pepper. Brush one side of 16 bread slices with olive oil mixture (reserve any remaining bread for another use). Place brushed slices on an ungreased baking sheet, oiled side up. Broil 3 to 4 inches from heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly browned.

3. Top toasted bread slices with tomato mixture and serve within 45 minutes. Makes 8 appetizer servings (2 per serving).