Cherry Tomato, Herb and Smoked Gouda Bruschetta

Adapted from Food & Wine

~from Savoring Time in the Kitchen

2 cups mixed yellow and red cherry tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup finely diced smoked Gouda, or any mild, smoked cheese (2 1/2 ounces)

1/4 cup chopped parsley

2 tablespoons shredded basil

2 tablespoons snipped chives

Salt and freshly ground pepper

A French Baguette, sliced on the diagonal into 1/4 to 1/2" slices

Extra Virgin Olive Oil for brushing on bread slices

Freshly ground pepper

Preheat oven to 350 (or use your toaster, set on low).

In a medium bowl, toss the tomatoes with the cheese, parsley, basil and chives. Season the mixture with salt and pepper and set aside.

To toast the baguette slices:

If toasting the bread slices in the oven, place them on a baking sheet.  Brush lightly with olive oil and give each a sprinkle of ground black pepper.  Toast in the preheated oven for about 5-6 minutes.  Watch carefully, you don't want them hard - just a light golden color.  This will make them easier to bite into without the toasts breaking.  If you are making a smaller amount and use a toaster, also watch carefully for the same reason.  Brush toaster-made slices with olive oil right after coming out of the toaster and sprinkle with a little ground black pepper. 

Top toasted baguette slices with the tomato, herb and cheese mixture and enjoy immediately!