I was craving something warm and toasty but this can also be made cold to be a refreshing meal on a hot Summer day.  This Roasted Pesto Tomato Melts recipe is simple, quick, and healthy.  It can be altered to fit a vegan’s diet by switching ingredients to vegan-friendly alternatives.  While perfect as a snack, it can also be a main dish when filled with other ingredients of your choosing.

Roasted Pesto Tomato Melts Recipe

Ingredients

(per serving)

2 Thick Slices of your favorite Bread

1 Spoonful of Pesto- Homemade or Store bought

4 Thick Slices of Tomato- Roma/Plum is recommended but any type will do

1/2 Tsp Garlic Salt

Pinch of Dried Basil

Sea Salt & Fresh Ground Pepper Pepper

Drizzle of Olive Oil

Shredded Cheese of your choice (Optional)

Instructions

Spread the desired amount of Pesto on each slice of Bread.

Layer on the Slices of Tomatoes, 2 on each slice.

Sprinkle the garlic salt, dried basil, salt, and pepper on top of each slice and drizzle with olive oil.

At this point, you can eat it as is.  Or, you can put it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until it has warmed.  I had topped a few slices with shredded cheese, so when I saw the cheese had melted, I took them out of the oven.  You have to be careful when heating pesto- if it is heated for too long it can get a very bitter taste.

**For any pregnant women who have heard to avoid pesto – speak to your doctor if you are concerned, but there are so many healthy ingredients in pesto that some say it is actually beneficial to have while pregnant, all of which can be read here.  

Eat it in moderation of course and if you are making it at home, be sure to wash the basil leaves extremely well to avoid any bacteria.

Related:

Pesto Dipped Garlic Bread Recipe

Pesto Chicken and Macaroni Recipe

Pesto Penne with Zucchini and Arugula Recipe