I am the lucky beneficiary of a friend who loves to prepare elaborate, gourmet dinners. One easy appetizer dish that I often make and bring to my friend’s house that I know she enjoys is a roasted tomato crostini. It is the easiest thing!

I just chop up some onions, garlic, and tomatoes. I try to remove the seeds from the tomatoes. Put all chopped items in a bowl and mix with salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Today, I had some truffle salt and truffle balsamic glaze so I used that. I roast the mixture in the oven at 350 degrees for over 45 minutes so that the flavors intensify and liquid evaporates.

I slice a baguette and brush each slice with olive oil, rub with a slice of garlic, and sprinkle with some salt and then toast it in the oven until slightly browned. I pack up the toast and the roasted tomatoes and then assemble it at my friend’s house. You can top the roasted tomato crostini with some basil chiffonade for flavor and a little color. So easy! Living Hilo Style.