Description
Tomato and Cheese Open-Faced Sandwich
Ingredients:
2 slices of crusty bread
1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
1 medium tomato, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt & black pepper to taste
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Instructions:
Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Add the Cheese and Tomato
Top each bread slice with a generous layer of shredded cheese.
Arrange the tomato slices over the cheese.
Season
Sprinkle the tomatoes with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve Hot
Enjoy your simple and flavorful open-faced sandwich as a snack or light meal!
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#TomatoCheeseToast #EasyMeals #QuickSnacks
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, select two slices of a sturdy, crusty bread like ciabatta or a rustic sourdough to hold the toppings. Drizzle each slice lightly with olive oil. In a small bowl, toss the shredded cheese with half of the dried herbs; this infuses the cheese directly with flavor. Press this herbed cheese mixture onto the bread, creating a solid base layer. Arrange the tomato slices in a single, slightly overlapping layer. Sprinkle the remaining oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper directly over the tomatoes. Bake on the middle rack for 8-10 minutes, but start checking at 8 minutes—you want the cheese fully melted and bubbly with just the slightest browning on the bread edges.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile sandwich shines as a quick lunch or appetizer. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent brunch item paired with a poached egg or a bowl of soup. For a gourmet touch, finish the baked toast with a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze or a few fresh basil leaves. To make it a party snack, slice each piece into smaller strips for easy sharing.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 200°C. Top oiled crusty bread with herbed shredded cheese and tomato slices. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely. Use triple the amount of fresh oregano and thyme for a brighter flavor, adding them after baking to preserve their freshness.
- How can I prevent the bread from getting soggy? Ensure your tomato slices are patted completely dry with a paper towel before assembling. The initial layer of cheese also acts as a moisture barrier.
- What are good cheese substitutes? For a stronger flavor, try grated Parmesan or Pecorino. For a dairy-free version, a high-quality melty vegan mozzarella works well.
- Can I make this in an air fryer? Yes. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 5-6 minutes, checking frequently, as cooking times vary by appliance.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? These are best enjoyed fresh. If necessary, reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispness; a microwave will make the bread soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using thin, soft sandwich bread, as it will become too soft under the toppings.
- Do not skip drying the tomato slices, as excess moisture is the main cause of sogginess.
- Resist overloading the bread with too many tomato slices, which can weigh it down and prevent even cooking.
- Do not bake on a rack that is too high in the oven, as the cheese may brown too quickly before the bread crisps.
- Avoid under-seasoning. The tomatoes and cheese need the salt and herbs to elevate their natural flavors.
Conclusion
This Tomato and Cheese Open-Faced Sandwich is a testament to how simple ingredients, when prepared with a little care, can create a truly satisfying dish. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can consistently achieve a perfect, crispy, and flavorful result. It’s a endlessly adaptable recipe that fits into any meal occasion, proving that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. Enjoy your creation!