For the expert, the less expert and the downright able to burn a salad.
A couple of simple ones to start off:
Pa amb tomaca (Catalan ham sandwich)
Note: you will need Serrano ham or Prosciutto for this recipe. I personally prefer my ham on its own or with a little bread, but this is the most popular way of eating it in Spain, so there must be something to it.
- Ciabatta or similar bread (i.e., not very crumbly), in slices
- Half a tomato
- Olive oil
- Serrano ham slices
Rub the tomato on the surface of the bread, pour some olive oil, top with a slice of ham and eat. No need to grill or heat or anything.
Mozzarella toast
An Italian version of cheese on toast.
- Once again, ciabatta slices
- Again, olive oil (are you starting to detect a trend in my cooking? )
- Mozzarella; the fresh kind that comes in a sachet with its own liquid, not the sliced, drier variety
- Oregano
Drizzle some olive oil on the bread. Put a couple of slices of mozzarella on top, sprinkle some oregano on top and put under the grill for a couple of minutes, until the cheese has melted.
Absolutely delicious.
This also works beautifully as a panino or sealed hot sandwich, if you have a panini press or sandwich maker. In that case I like to add a slice of good quality honey roast or smoked ham.