Introduction
As the summer heat sets in, there’s nothing quite like a fresh tomato toast to celebrate the season’s bounty. This recipe showcases the best of summer produce: juicy heirloom tomatoes paired with a garlicky lemon mayonnaise spread on artisan bread. It’s a quick, delicious, and visually stunning dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a light dinner. Let’s dive into the simple yet flavorful ingredients and instructions to create the best summer tomato toast.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1/3 cup mayonnaise
– 1 clove garlic
– 1 lemon
– small bunch of chives
– 8 slices artisan bread like sourdough
– 2 large heirloom or slicing tomatoes
– flaky sea salt
– black pepper
– olive oil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare your ingredients by placing the mayonnaise in a small bowl.
2. Use a microplane zester to grate the garlic into the mayo bowl.
3. Zest and juice the lemon, using half of the juice and adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mayo bowl. Reserve the zest for later use.
4. Wash and thinly slice the chives, and slice the artisan bread.
5. Slice the tomatoes and lightly toast the bread to achieve the slightest hint of crunch.
6. Spread the garlic mayonnaise mixture generously on the toasted bread.
7. Top each slice with the tomato slices and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, a dash of lemon zest, and a sprinkle of chives.
Enjoy your summer tomato toast as a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Mayonnaise Mixture
Place 1/3 cup of mayonnaise in a small bowl.
Grate the Garlic
Using a microplane zester, grate 1 clove of garlic into the bowl with the mayonnaise.
Add Lemon Flavor
Zest and juice half of a lemon. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mayonnaise mixture. Reserve the zest for later use.
Prepare the Chives
Wash a small bunch of chives, then thinly slice them and set aside.
Slice the Bread
Take 8 slices of artisan bread, preferably sourdough, and slice as needed.
Prepare the Tomatoes
Slice 2 large heirloom or slicing tomatoes.
Toast the Bread
Lightly toast the bread until it has the slightest hint of crunch but is not overly browned.
Assemble the Toast
Spread the mayonnaise mixture on each slice of toasted bread. Top with the sliced tomatoes, followed by a drizzle of olive oil.
Season the Toast
Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the tomatoes. Add the reserved lemon zest and a sprinkle of sliced chives on top.
Notes
Customization Options
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or lemon according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This toast pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Storage Instructions
Assembled toasts are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftover mayo mixture, store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
Cook techniques
Preparing Mayonnaise Mix
Combine mayonnaise with freshly grated garlic and lemon juice to create a zesty base for the toast.
Grating Garlic
Use a microplane zester to finely grate garlic into the mayonnaise, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.
Juicing and Zesting a Lemon
Zest the lemon first, then cut it in half and squeeze out the juice needed for the mayonnaise mixture.
Slicing Chives
Wash and thinly slice chives to add a fresh and mild onion flavor to the final dish.
Slicing Bread
Cut artisan bread, such as sourdough, into thick slices for a hearty base.
Toasting Bread
Lightly toast the bread to achieve a slight crunch, enhancing the texture and flavor.
Layering Ingredients
Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the toasted bread, followed by fresh tomato slices, a drizzle of olive oil, and seasonings.
Seasoning
Sprinkle flaky sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, lemon zest, and chives over the assembled toast for added flavor and visual appeal.
FAQ
What type of bread is best for summer tomato toast?
Artisan bread like sourdough is recommended for its sturdy texture and flavor.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use any ripe heirloom or slicing tomatoes, as they will add freshness and sweetness to the dish.
How can I make the mayo mixture spicier?
Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mayonnaise for an added kick.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise if you prefer a healthier or plant-based option.
How do I store leftover tomato toast?
It’s best to enjoy it immediately, but if you have leftovers, store the components separately. The bread may become soggy if assembled beforehand.
Conclusion
This summer tomato toast recipe highlights the freshness and brightness of seasonal ingredients. The combination of rich mayonnaise infused with garlic and lemon, paired with ripe heirloom tomatoes and crunchy artisan bread, creates a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for a light lunch or a side at a gathering, this toast is both simple and elegant, making the most of summer produce.
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