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easy spanish pan con tomate recipe: Quick Tomato Bread for Family Lunch
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easy spanish pan con tomate recipe: Quick Tomato Bread for Family Lunch

Pan con tomate is a classic Spanish tomato bread made with crisp toasted bread, ripe grated tomato, garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, and salt. It is a simple, fresh lunch, snack, or tapas-style starter that comes together quickly.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 small French baguette about 12 oz / 340 g, split lengthwise and cut into 4 pieces
  • 2 large very ripe tomatoes about 10 oz / 285 g total, halved
  • 1 large garlic clove peeled
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 45 mL, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 g, plus more to taste
  • Flaky sea salt optional, for finishing
  • Fresh basil leaves or chopped flat-leaf parsley optional, for serving

Instructions

  • Heat a broiler to high or heat a grill pan or toaster oven. Place the baguette pieces cut-side up on a baking sheet or rack and toast until the edges are crisp and golden. Watch closely so the bread does not burn.
  • While the bread toasts, grate the cut sides of the tomatoes on the large holes of a box grater over a bowl. Stop when only the flattened tomato skins remain; discard the skins. Stir the grated tomato with the kosher salt and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of the olive oil.
  • When the bread is toasted, lightly rub the cut side of each piece with the peeled garlic clove. Use a gentle touch for mild garlic flavor, or rub more firmly for a stronger flavor.
  • Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the garlic-rubbed bread. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 mL) olive oil and add flaky sea salt or herbs, if using.
  • Serve right away while the bread is crisp and the tomato topping is fresh. For a heartier lunch, pair with eggs, cheese, sliced ham, or a simple salad.