Balsamic Glazed Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Crostini and Al Fresco Grilled Cheese Sandwiches for the Kids

Oh my gosh! These are so good! I used a classic french baguette for the crostini but the tomatoes would be delicious with most anything. For the kids I often keep the flavors more simple so I just grilled the bread on the outdoor grill and added cheese and tomato slices with a piece of romaine lettuce. We call romaine "crunchy lettuce" which seems to make it so much more appealing.

Balsamic Glazed Roma Tomatoes
To prepare the glaze, combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:

• 3 ounces balsamic vinegar
• 3 ounces extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 chopped shallot (or garlic)
• 2 sprigs fresh basil
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare the tomatoes:

• Cut 4 Roma tomatoes lengthwise into slices 1/4 inch slices
• Place the tomatoes in a large skillet and pour the glaze over the tomatoes
• Simmer for about 5 minutes then flip and continue to cook the second side for another minute or two
• Keep the tomatoes warm until ready to prepare the crostini

Prepare bread for Balsamic Glazed Tomato and Goat Cheese Crostini
Really any way you like to make toast would work just fine. For this dish I brushed cut slices of baguette with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper. I then toasted the bread on our outdoor grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Smooth goat cheese on warm crostini and top with a tomato and basil leaf to finish.