Are you ready to elevate your lunch game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sophistication? Introducing the Open Faced Tomato and Goat Cheese Sandwich with Hot Bacon Vinaigrette—a culinary delight that combines the creamy tang of goat cheese, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon, all drizzled with a warm, zesty vinaigrette. This mouthwatering recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also promises to impress your taste buds and your guests alike. Dive into this deliciously simple creation that takes just 25 minutes to make, and discover why it’s destined to become your new favorite go-to meal!
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden brown (about 7-8 minutes). Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- While bacon is cooking, slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Ensure tomatoes are ripe and at room temperature for best flavor.
- Arrange bread slices on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
- Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each bread slice, covering the surface evenly.
- Top each bread slice with tomato slices, overlapping slightly. Season tomatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and toast for 8-10 minutes, until bread edges are golden and tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and remaining olive oil to create a quick vinaigrette.
- Remove the toasted sandwiches from the oven and immediately drizzle with the hot bacon vinaigrette.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top of each sandwich. Serve immediately while warm and crisp.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture and flavor, opt for a hearty bread like sourdough or ciabatta. These types hold up well to the toppings and add a delightful crunch.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your tomatoes and goat cheese will significantly impact the flavor of your sandwich. Look for ripe, in-season tomatoes and creamy, tangy goat cheese for the best results.
- Perfect Your Bacon: To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, start cooking it in a cold skillet and gradually increase the heat. This method allows the fat to render out slowly, resulting in a crunchy texture.
- Customize Your Vinaigrette: Feel free to add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to the vinaigrette for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also give it a nice kick!
- Serve Immediately: This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the bread is still warm and crisp. Don’t let it sit too long before serving to maintain that delightful texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg
