Simple to make, light and without a doubt, delicious, bruschetta is basically a slice of bread toasted on each side and then generously moistened with a dribble of olive oil. It is then rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper.

Some believe that bruschetta was created to demonstrate the new season’s oil during the olive harvest in Tuscany, while others claim it was a way to salvage stale bread by adding oil, herbs and other seasonings.

The most important ingredient when it comes to bruschetta is not the garlic but the olive oil. The garlic is basically rubbed on to enhance the flavour of the olive oil being used. Remember, you have to enjoy the fresh aroma of the garlic — not eat lumps of it. There are many versions of bruschetta. Some like to fry country bread in oil and then rub the garlic and place the toppings while others believe in baking slices of white bread in the oven and then finishing it off with the topping. Whatever the version, it is as simple as it is delicious. As a first course or an entire meal, the possibilities are endless. Beyond the basic tomato or mushroom toppings, one can also use any cheese, meat, seafood or vegetable.

fresh mozzarella with tomato and basil

Ingredients: 5-6 ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick; salt and pepper; 2-3 cloves garlic; 1/2 pound fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced; extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling; balsamic vinegar; 2 leafy sprigs of basil

Method: Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper and set them aside while you grill the bread. Rub the grilled bread generously with the garlic cloves and top each slice with a slice of mozzarella and a sprinkling of salt. Top with a layer of tomato. Drizzle with olive oil and a few drops of balsamic vinegar. Finish with one or two basil leaves, and serve.