Instructions: Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line the bottom of a baking dish (choose one large enough to hold tomatoes snuggly) with 12 large basil leaves.

Core and skin tomatoes. To skin, submerge tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute; remove and let cool or place in ice water bath; remove skin.

Place tomatoes in dish, core-side down on the bed of basil. Pour olive oil into baking dish; oil should cover 1/4 of the tomatoes height, 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Thinly slice 1 garlic clove and sprinkle over tomatoes. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until tomatoes are soft and lightly caramelized.

Meanwhile, lightly drizzle bread with olive oil; toast in oven until golden brown. Rub warm bread slices with halved garlic cloves and top with tomatoes and remaining basil (cut into thin strips).

Makes 6 first-course servings.

Serving Ideas :
This recipe can also be used as a sauce for pasta.

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