Let me tell you a story about bread and how I used to wage an unnecessary war against it. Back in my early fitness days, I was that person who thought bread was the ultimate enemy. Every slice was a potential saboteur to my health goals, a villain waiting to derail my perfectly planned diet.

I remember seeing this incredible small crusty tomato basil sandwich at a local bistro that looked absolutely divine. But instead of enjoying it, I’d sit there with my sad, breadless salad, feeling virtuous but completely unsatisfied.

Years of nutrition education taught me something profound: it wasn’t bread that was the problem. It was my toxic relationship with food. The small crusty tomato basil sandwich wasn’t my enemy—my restrictive mindset was.

I learned that quality ingredients, balance, and enjoying food are just as important as nutrition. Bread, especially when it’s a beautiful canvas for fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy cheese, can absolutely be part of a healthy lifestyle.

This crostini recipe? It’s a celebration of that journey. A small crusty tomato basil sandwich transformed into something elegant and delicious, with a twist of za’atar for an unexpected flavor punch.

Small Crusty Open-Faced Tomato Basil Sandwich With Gorgonzola.

Ingredients:

• 1 sourdough baguette, sliced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 oz gorgonzola cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze
• Olive oil
• Za’atar spice blend
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Slice sourdough baguette into thin rounds
2. Brush with olive oil, toast until golden
3. Halve cherry tomatoes
4. Crumble gorgonzola
5. Layer tomatoes on crostini
6. Top with cheese and basil
7. Drizzle balsamic glaze
8. Sprinkle with za’atar, salt, and pepper (Za’atar is optional if you are not a fan, you can omit it)

Enjoy, friends!

Sourdough Bread is Good Stuff, Here’s Why.

Now, let’s talk about why sourdough is such a game-changer. Unlike regular bread, sourdough goes through a fermentation process that breaks down gluten and phytic acid.

This makes it easier to digest and allows our bodies to absorb more nutrients. It’s like a small crusty tomato basil sandwich open-faced, but with added health benefits!

That’s why I always recommend getting your bread from a local bakery rather than off a store shelf. The difference in quality and digestibility is night and day. Plus, you’re supporting local businesses, which is always a win in my book.

So next time you’re craving a small crusty tomato basil sandwich, why not try this crostini version? It’s open-faced, delicious, and made with bread that loves you back. Your taste buds (and your gut) will thank you!