Learn how to make Pan con Tomate with this delicious and easy Spanish tomato bread recipe. It’s the perfect tapas appetizer, side, or snack to make with fresh summer tomatoes. 

After many years of growing our own summer tomatoes, we have a post dedicated to Fresh Tomato Recipes. One of my all-time favorite tomato recipes is this Authentic Tomato Bruschetta.

Pan con Tomate, also known as pan tumaca in Spanish and pa amb tomàquet in Catalan, is like the Spanish tomato bread version of Italian bruschetta. Made with toasted crusty bread topped with ripe tomato pulp, olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley, this recipe is simple and amazing. It takes me right back to enjoying tapas in Barcelona years ago. If you love recipes like this one, don’t miss our Mediterranean Diet Recipes. There’s a similar Greek recipe made with toasted bread and tomato paste spread called Bertes. 

How to Make Pan con Tomate 

There are a couple of different ways to make pan con tomate. The simplest way is to toast rustic bread, rub half a clove of garlic over it while warm, then rub a very rip halved tomato over and finish with a little salt, pepper, and olive oil. 

My personal preference, however, is to use grated tomato, as the bread doesn’t get ripped up and there is more tomato on top. 

To get the best fine pulp from the tomatoes, use a grater. You can use a Microplane grater like this one or a box grater. This way the seeds and skin won’t mingle in with the pulp. 

Into the same bowl, season the tomato pulp with garlic, good Spanish olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you feel this mixture needs some acid, feel free to add a splash (a teaspoon or two) or sherry or white wine vinegar. 

Spread the flavorful tomato mixture onto lightly grille crusty bread. Baguette or Spanish country bread works well. 

Tips and Serving Suggestions 

• With such simple ingredients, it’s important to use the best quality ingredients possible. You’ll want flavorful, ripe, juicy tomatoes here. Homegrown or locally grown tomatoes are preferable. 
• Feel free to make the tomato topping hours in advance, but don’t top the bread until just before serving. 
• Some people top the Pan con Tomate with Spanish jamon or anchovies, though being vegetarian, that’s not my style. 
• Pan con Tomate goes well with other Spanish tapas and recipes such as this Spanish Cheese Board, Sangria, or Paella. This Mediterranean Lentil Salad would be great alongside too.