by request — Les Petites Gourmettes

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 1 small fennel bulb, trimmed and diced, fonds reserved for garnish
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 16 slices baguette or Italian bread, cut 3/4-inch-thick
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and flattened
• 4 slices crisply cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)