Cheesy Tomato Toast with Fresh Herbs
Cheesy Tomato Toast with Fresh Herbs is a quick and delicious snack or light meal, combining crispy toasted bread with melted mozzarella cheese, roasted cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet flavorful treat, perfect for any time of the day, whether you’re looking for a light breakfast, snack, or a quick meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, offering the crispy crunch of toasted bread, the creamy melt of mozzarella cheese, and the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes. The addition of dried oregano and fresh basil makes it aromatic and herby, turning an everyday toast into something special. It’s an easy, versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day, with minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 slices of whole wheat bread (or your preferred bread)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly browned.
- While the bread is toasting, halve the cherry tomatoes and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and top each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese and the seasoned cherry tomatoes.
- Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, goat cheese, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Add Protein: Top with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
- Additional Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, olives, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before baking for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the toast back in the oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to warm it up and re-melt the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sourdough, baguette, or gluten-free bread.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the toppings (tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings) ahead of time and assemble the toast when you’re ready to bake.
Can I use different herbs?
Yes, you can replace oregano with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning, depending on your flavor preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the tomatoes before toasting, or drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I use cherry tomatoes that aren’t roasted?
While raw cherry tomatoes can be used, roasting them adds sweetness and deepens the flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
How can I make this dish more filling?
Add a side of avocado or top the toast with a fried or poached egg to make it more substantial.
Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella?
Yes, you can use cheddar, goat cheese, ricotta, or even a blue cheese for a different flavor twist.
How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure that the bread is toasted until it’s crispy before adding the toppings, and avoid using too much olive oil on the tomatoes.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the toasted bread with cheese separately and reheat before adding fresh toppings.
Conclusion
Cheesy Tomato Toast with Fresh Herbs is a quick and tasty dish that brings together the delicious simplicity of toast with the savory goodness of melted cheese and sweet, roasted tomatoes. It’s easy to prepare, and the addition of fresh herbs and seasonings elevates the flavor, making it perfect for any meal or snack. With endless variations and customization options, this is a recipe that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
PrintCheesy Tomato Toast with Fresh Herbs
A quick and delicious snack or light meal, featuring crispy toasted bread topped with melted cheese and sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes, all seasoned with fresh herbs. A simple yet flavorful treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Snack, Light Meal
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 slices of whole wheat bread (or your preferred bread)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly browned.
- While the bread is toasting, halve the cherry tomatoes and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and top each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese and the seasoned cherry tomatoes.
- Return the bread to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use any type of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cheesy toast, tomato toast, mozzarella cheese, fresh herbs, easy snack, light meal, roasted tomatoes