The Ultimate Bruschetta

by Sue Johnson

INGREDIENTS

1-1/2 lb. plum tomatoes
2 tbsp. onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tsp. red wine vinegar
6 tbsp. olive oil
4 slices crusty Italian bread
Salt and pepper, for seasoning
Parmesan cheese, for topping

INSTRUCTIONS

Cut tomatoes in half and squeeze out seeds and juice. Chop tomatoes into small dice; place in bowl. Add onion, garlic, basil, vinegar, half of the olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Let stand at room temperature for about 1 hour. Drain liquid. On barbecue grill or under broiler, toast bread on both sides until golden brown. Quickly brush one side of each slice with remaining olive oil. Spoon tomato mixture on top. Either serve immediately, slices cut in half, or return to heat to melt a little Parmesan cheese on top.