Ingredients:

  • 1 pint Grape or Cherry Tomatoes, halved lengthwise
  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for roasting)
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano or Thyme
  • Fine Sea Salt & Black Pepper, To taste
  • 4 oz Sliced Pancetta, diced small
  • 1/2 cup Good Quality Mayonnaise
  • 1 large clove Garlic, finely minced
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Chives, finely snipped
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (optional)
  • 1 standard loaf Sourdough Baguette, sliced 1/2-inch thick
  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing crostini)
  • 1/2 cup lightly packed Fresh Micro Arugula or Basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Toss the halved tomatoes with 2 Tbsp olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Arrange cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until slightly shrivelled and concentrated in flavour. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. Render the Pancetta: Place the diced pancetta in a small, cold frying pan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until deeply crisp and all fat is rendered (approx. 5–7 minutes). Remove the pancetta pieces with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  3. Make the Garlic-Chive Aioli: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, snipped chives, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and chill.
  4. Prepare and Toast the Crostini: Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool fully on a wire rack.
  5. Layer the Flavours (Assembly): Once all components are cool, assemble just before serving. Spread a generous teaspoon of the chilled Garlic-Chive Aioli onto each toasted crostini base. Gently top with 2–3 roasted tomato halves, sprinkle generously with the crispy pancetta pieces, and finish with a small tuft of microgreens.
  6. Serve Immediately: Arrange on a platter and serve straight away to ensure maximum crunch.