Cherry Tomato & Basil Bruschetta

Chargrilled slices of ciabatta rubbed with a raw garlic clove, then heaped with diced cherry tomatoes that have been marinating in good olive oil, shredded basil and a pinch of sea salt. It's the classic Italian version — juicy, bright and fresh, with the bread still crunchy at the edges. The garlic rub gives just enough bite without overpowering the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Three pieces come on a long plate finished with a trickle of balsamic and a few extra basil leaves. It's a light, summery starter that suits a warm evening. Of our bruschette, this is the original and simplest, relying on ripe tomatoes and fresh basil rather than cheese or spreads.

• What's inside: ciabatta, garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt, balsamic vinegar
• Flavour: fresh, juicy, garlicky
• Portion: three bruschette, a starter for one
• Served: at room temperature, on a long plate with balsamic
• Goes well with: a Strawberry Sparkling Cooler or our Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bowl