Bruschetta

• portions: Makes 4 bruschettas.

Ingrédients

4 slices crusty, firm- crumbed country bread, cut about ¾ inch thick

2 large fresh garlic cloves, peeled and cut in half

Very fruity, rich-tasting extra-virgin olive oil

Sea salt

Coarsely ground black pepper, optional

Instructions

Grill or toast the bread on both sides until golden brown, but not hard- toasted all the way through. Rub one side of each slice of bread with the cut garlic cloves. The garlic will break down and become absorbed into the bread. The more you rub, the more pungent the garlic flavor. Place the bread on a serving dish with the garlic-rubbed side up. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Season with salt to taste, and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.