Bruschetta

Serves: 6 people (as appetiser)

Ingredients:
1 baguette (Italian or French bread)
1 clove of garlic (finely diced)
2 tbsp virgin olive oil
2 firm large tomatoes
salt
pepper
125g (1/2 cup) fresh basil (chopped)

Method:

1. Slice the bread diagonally, 25mm (1-inch) thick.

2. Toast the bread under the grill until lightly browned.

3. Combine the garlic, olive oil and tomatoes. Top the toast with a generous proportion of the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Grill for about 30 seconds (enough to heat the tomatoes). Sprinkle with basil and serve.

Tip: If your dinner guests are looking a little drowsy or bored, or you're mad with the kids for being churlish brats, just add a sprinkling of fresh, finely chopped chilli to the garlic, tomato and olive oil mixture before it goes on the bread. It's guaranteed to change their attitudes!