Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta

There’s something incredibly satisfying about enjoying a crispy slice of Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta on a warm summer afternoon. I still remember the first time I tried this dish at a quaint little café in my neighborhood. The moment I took a bite, the flavors danced on my palate, and I felt transported to a sunny terrace filled with the aroma of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. This recipe captures that magic, making it easy for you to recreate the experience at home.

This delightful toast is perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet flavorful. With a few slices of robust sourdough bread, creamy feta cheese, and fresh heirloom tomatoes, you can whip up a dish that’s not just a feast for the mouth but also for the eyes. Pair it with a chilled drink, and you have a summer meal that speaks of joy and simplicity!

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, each bite of this toast will remind you of the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The creamy whipped feta is an absolute star, elevating the dish with its rich texture and flavor. So gather your friends, slice up some tomatoes, and enjoy this culinary experience that celebrates the vibrant essence of summer!

Essential Ingredients for Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta

The ingredients for this Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta are simple yet flavorful. They work harmoniously to create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a delightful treat at home. The key players here are fresh, seasonal ingredients that elevate each bite.

• 6 slices sourdough bread: A robust base that provides a crunchy texture and holds up well to toppings.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden toast.
• 2 cloves garlic: Infuses the butter with aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
• 3 to 4 heirloom tomatoes: Juicy and flavorful, these tomatoes are the star of the toast.
• Fresh basil and oregano: Adds an herbaceous note that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 8 ounces feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, it forms the basis of the whipped topping that brings everything together.
• 3 ounces whipped cream cheese: Adds a light and fluffy texture to the spread.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Torn into pieces for added freshness and flavor in the topping.

Making This Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta

Creating this Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta is a delightful experience that combines simple steps with delicious results. Follow along as I guide you through the process of making this scrumptious toast!

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Start by placing the sourdough slices on a baking sheet. Ensure they’re spread out evenly to allow even toasting. You want them to have plenty of space to crisp up nicely.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and garlic. Stir until they are well blended, creating a fragrant mixture. The aroma of garlic should fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
3. Now it’s time to spread the garlic butter generously over each slice of sourdough. Make sure to cover the bread evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown color and rich flavor.
4. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the slices for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’re looking for a lovely golden color and a crisp texture.
5. Once the toast is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Now, it’s time to spread each slice with a generous tablespoon of the whipped feta. It should be creamy and smooth, making it easy to spread.
6. Top each slice with a few slices of heirloom tomatoes. This is where the beauty comes in; the colors and textures should create a stunning visual appeal.
7. Sprinkle each piece with a little salt and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and the whipped feta.
8. Now, add a few torn leaves of basil and oregano on top for a fresh, aromatic finish. They not only look beautiful but also add a burst of flavor as you take each bite.
9. Finally, it’s time to devour your creation! Enjoy this toast warm and fresh, perhaps with a chilled drink on the side. It’s the perfect way to savor summer flavors!
10. For the whipped feta, add the crumbled feta to a food processor. Pulse it until it resembles small crumbs. This step enhances its texture, making it easier to work with.
11. Next, add in the cream cheese and blend for about 4 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined. The result should be a super creamy mixture.
12. Finally, toss in the remaining basil leaves and blend until fully incorporated. This whipped feta will keep well in the fridge for a few days, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread!

Change It Up

Sometimes it’s fun to mix things up! Here are some tips to add your own twist to the Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta.

• Try different breads: Using a different type of hearty bread like ciabatta or even a gluten-free option can change the flavor profile.
• Add other toppings: Consider adding slices of ripe avocado or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses: Use goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a different taste experience.
• Herb variations: Swap out basil and oregano with other herbs like thyme or dill to create a different flavor combination.
• Make it spicy: Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a delightful heat to the toast.
• Seasonal variations: In the fall, try topping with roasted butternut squash or in the winter with sautéed greens.

Best Served With

The Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta shines as a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it ideal for different occasions.

• With a salad: Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a light lunch that’s refreshing.
• As an appetizer: Serve it as a starter at gatherings or parties; it’s sure to impress your guests.
• For brunch: This toast can make for a fantastic brunch item, alongside some fresh fruit and coffee.
• Picnic staple: It travels well, making it a great choice for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
• Seasonal pairings: In summer, enjoy it with chilled soups or grilled vegetables.
• With drinks: It complements a variety of beverages, from iced tea to sparkling water.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta is a delightful way to savor the vibrant flavors of summer. Its combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy feta, and crispy toast creates a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the wonderful burst of flavors it brings to your table. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and make this delicious toast tonight!

Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta

The ultimate summer treat! This Heirloom Tomato Garlic Toast with Basil Whipped Feta combines juicy heirloom tomatoes with creamy whipped feta for a delightful appetizer or light meal. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's a must-try for your next gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Appetizers, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 6 slices sourdough bread
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 to 4 heirloom tomatoes sliced
• fresh basil and oregano for topping
• salt and pepper for sprinkling
• 8 ounces feta cheese crumbled and at room temperature
• 3 ounces whipped cream cheese at room temperature
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn into pieces

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Start by placing the sourdough slices on a baking sheet. Ensure they're spread out evenly to allow even toasting. You want them to have plenty of space to crisp up nicely.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and garlic. Stir until they are well blended, creating a fragrant mixture. The aroma of garlic should fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
• Now it’s time to spread the garlic butter generously over each slice of sourdough. Make sure to cover the bread evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown color and rich flavor.
• Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the slices for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’re looking for a lovely golden color and a crisp texture.
• Once the toast is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Now, it’s time to spread each slice with a generous tablespoon of the whipped feta. It should be creamy and smooth, making it easy to spread.
• Top each slice with a few slices of heirloom tomatoes. This is where the beauty comes in; the colors and textures should create a stunning visual appeal.
• Sprinkle each piece with a little salt and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and the whipped feta.
• Now, add a few torn leaves of basil and oregano on top for a fresh, aromatic finish. They not only look beautiful but also add a burst of flavor as you take each bite.
• Finally, it’s time to devour your creation! Enjoy this toast warm and fresh, perhaps with a chilled drink on the side. It’s the perfect way to savor summer flavors!
• For the whipped feta, add the crumbled feta to a food processor. Pulse it until it resembles small crumbs. This step enhances its texture, making it easier to work with.
• Next, add in the cream cheese and blend for about 4 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined. The result should be a super creamy mixture.
• Finally, toss in the remaining basil leaves and blend until fully incorporated. This whipped feta will keep well in the fridge for a few days, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread!

Notes

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the whipped feta for up to a month.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp salad or a glass of chilled lemonade for a refreshing meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add roasted vegetables or even a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
• Serving suggestion: Try serving it at room temperature for a picnic-friendly option.

Keyword Basil Whipped Feta, Garlic Toast Recipe, Heirloom Tomato Toast, Summer Appetizers

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.