Goat Cheese & Tomato Bruschetta

by Carla Tuhacek

1 loaf Italian bread
1 small pkg. soft mild goat cheese
1 tsp. minced fresh oregano leaves
1⁄4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
2 ripe medium tomatoes, seeded & diced
1/8 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
2 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley, divided
2 garlic cloves, cut in half

Cut ends of bread. Slice loaf diagonally into 1⁄2″ thick slices.

In small bowl, stir goat cheese, oregano, and pepper with fork until blended. In medium bowl stir tomatoes with salt, 1 tsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. parsley.

Place bread slices on grill over medium heat and cook 3-5 minutes on each side until lightly toasted (or toast in broiler.) Rub one side of each toast slice with cut side of garlic. Brush with remaining oil.

Just before serving, spread goat cheese mixture on slices and top with tomato mixture. Sprinkle with parsley. Warm under broiler if desired.