1 loaf Italian bread, sliced 1-1 1/2" thick
Olive oil or butter
4 coarsely chopped seeded plum tomatoes
2 lg. cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 tbsp. Balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp. olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste

Crostini is simply toasted bread. In Italian this is often served to arriving guests as an appetit. This "Americanized" version is good served with grilled red meat and a full bodied red wine.

About 1 hour before serving: Combine tomato, garlic, vinegar and olive oil in an attractive bowl. Salt and pepper lightly and stir well. Set aside. Do not refrigerate. Make only enough for your meal, as this does not keep well.

Arrange bread on baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil, or spread lightly with butter. Toast at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes, or until just golden in color. Serve the tomato spooned onto hot bread.

Parsley or basil can be added to tomato for variety.