Destination of Focus: Barcelona
The dynamic nature of Barcelona’s restaurant scene mirrors the energy and identity of the city itself. Just as residents celebrate the eclectic mix of past and present architecturally, so too do they embrace the combination of cutting edge cuisine and traditional fare that exists in its dining culture. After indulging in the classic flavors of Catalan cooking, you will find yourself craving the tastes once you return home.
To satisfy this longing for Barcelona’s food, our menu focuses on tapas—small plates with big flavors—that you and friends can savor over wine as the weather heats up and days get longer. First, let’s start with our pa amb tomàquet recipe…
Pa amb tomàquet recipe:
This bread rubbed with tomato, garlic and oil is one of the most popular accompaniments in Barcelona. The tomato’s sweetness and acidity is elevated by rich notes of high quality olive oil and finished with a sprinkling of salt. It’s easy to prepare and addictive—so count on sneaking a few before guests arrive.
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
1 24-inch sourdough baguette, sliced into ¾-inch pieces
6 cloves garlic
8 vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced in half
¾ cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste
Directions:
Preheat grill to 350˚F.
Rub one side of each slice of bread with raw garlic clove. Rub tomato vigorously across same side of bread, so that the pulp and pieces of tomato adhere. Place the other side of bread down on the grill and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, until it is crispy and slightly charred. Remove from heat, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Serve at warm temperature.
