Preparation:
Combine dried tomatoes, water and vinegar. Let stand for 15 to 20 minutes to soften tomatoes. Drain. Discard liquid. Cut dried tomatoes into thin strips; return to bowl. Stir in ripe tomato, onion, olives, oil, parsley, garlic and capers. Season with pepper.
Bias-slice bread into 24 pieces, about 1/2" thick. Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 3 to 5 minutes or till light brown. Turn bread over; bake for 3 to 5 minutes more or till light brown.
Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread and serve immediately. Or, if desired, sprinkle added Paremsan cheese or mozzarella over tomato mixture; return to oven for 3 to 5 minutes more or till cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately. (wrv) |