Catalan Tomato Bread: A Simple, Flavorful Spanish Classic
Catalan Tomato Bread, or Pa amb Tomàquet, is a beloved staple from Catalonia, Spain, that turns simple ingredients into a flavor-packed experience. At its heart, it celebrates the beauty of fresh, high-quality produce: ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, good olive oil, and crusty bread. With every bite, you get a satisfying mix of crunchy texture, juicy tomato, and aromatic olive oil that makes it perfect as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to meals.
This dish exemplifies the Spanish philosophy of simplicity in cooking. Minimal ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor. Toasting the bread just enough to hold the tomato pulp while maintaining a slight crunch, rubbing it with garlic for a subtle punch, and drizzling it generously with extra virgin olive oil creates a harmony of flavors that is both rustic and sophisticated. Catalan Tomato Bread is also highly versatile, allowing you to pair it with cured meats, cheeses, or even fresh herbs for extra depth.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Rustic bread (baguette or country loaf) | 4 slices | 320 kcal |
| Ripe tomatoes | 2 medium | 44 kcal |
| Garlic cloves | 1–2 | 8 kcal |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Optional toppings: ham, cheese, fresh herbs | As desired | 50–100 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Bread
Slice rustic bread into 1-inch thick pieces. Toast lightly in a pan, oven, or toaster until just golden and slightly crispy. - Prepare the Tomatoes
Cut tomatoes in half. Using a fork or grater, crush the tomato pulp into a bowl, or directly rub the cut side on the toasted bread. - Add Garlic Flavor
Peel garlic cloves and gently rub them over the toasted bread for a subtle aromatic flavor. Adjust the amount based on taste preference. - Assemble the Bread
Spread crushed tomato pulp evenly over each slice of toasted bread. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. - Season
Sprinkle a pinch of salt over each slice to enhance the flavors. Optionally, top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. - Serve
Serve immediately while the bread is still slightly warm and crispy. Optionally, add toppings such as thinly sliced jamón, manchego cheese, or olives.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Bread Choice: Rustic, crusty bread is ideal, but ciabatta or sourdough also works.
- Tomato Variations: Use ripe plum tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or heirloom varieties for unique flavor.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust garlic rubbing for a subtle or more pronounced flavor.
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a twist.
- Vegan Option: Stick with tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs for a simple vegan snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 155–180 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20–22 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
| Fat | 9–10 g |
This simple recipe provides healthy fats from olive oil, fiber from tomatoes and bread, and is naturally low in sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a tapas appetizer alongside olives, cheeses, or cured meats.
- Pair with soups or salads for a light lunch or dinner.
- Add toppings like jamón, manchego, or roasted vegetables for a heartier snack.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for gourmet flavor.
Catalan Tomato Bread: A Simple, Flavorful Spanish Classic
Course: Recipes4 slices
servings5
minutes5
minutes155-180
kcalIngredients
IngredienttQuantity
Rustic bread (baguette or country loaf)t4 slices
Ripe tomatoest2 medium
Garlic clovest1–2
Extra virgin olive oilt2 tbsp
SalttTo taste
Optional toppings (ham, cheese, fresh herbs)tAs desired
Directions
- Slice rustic bread into 1-inch thick pieces and toast lightly until golden.
- Cut tomatoes in half and crush the pulp using a fork or rub directly on the toasted bread.
- Peel garlic cloves and rub them gently over the toasted bread.
- Spread crushed tomato pulp evenly over each slice.
- Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt to taste and add optional toppings such as fresh herbs, jamón, or cheese.
- Serve immediately while the bread is warm and slightly crispy.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Bread Choice: Rustic, crusty bread like a baguette or country loaf works best to hold the tomato and olive oil without becoming soggy.
Tomato Quality: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor; cherry, plum, or heirloom varieties all work well.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of bread for Catalan Tomato Bread?
Yes, but rustic, crusty bread like a baguette or country loaf works best to hold the tomato pulp and maintain a slight crunch.
2. Can I prepare it in advance?
It’s best served immediately while the bread is warm and crispy. If made ahead, the bread may become soggy, so toast just before serving.
3. Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! Heirloom, plum, or cherry tomatoes all work well. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor.
4. How much garlic should I use?
Adjust garlic to taste. Rub one or two cloves on the toasted bread for a subtle aroma or stronger flavor depending on preference.
5. How should I serve Catalan Tomato Bread?
Serve as a tapas appetizer, with soups or salads, or as part of a light lunch or snack. Drizzle with extra olive oil for added richness.
Conclusion
Catalan Tomato Bread is a testament to the idea that simplicity can deliver extraordinary flavor. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this Spanish classic brings the rustic charm and vibrant taste of Catalonia to your table. Perfect for breakfast, a light snack, or an appetizer, it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and endlessly satisfying. By focusing on quality ingredients and simple techniques, Catalan Tomato Bread turns humble bread and tomato into a culinary delight that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
