tosta

Tosta is a term used in Spanish and Portuguese to refer to a slice of bread that has been toasted. In Spain and Portugal, a tosta is typically served hot as an open-faced snack or light meal. The basic preparation involves toasting a thick slice of bread until crisp, then topping it with ingredients such as olive oil and salt, tomatoes and garlic (the classic pan con tomate), cheese, ham, tuna, sardines, eggs, or vegetables. The toppings and combinations vary by region and establishment, and tostas are commonly found in bars, cafés, and markets.

Tostas are characterized by their simple bread base and emphasis on quality toppings; they are related to other open-faced sandwiches or tostadas but are distinct in their Iberian usage and terminology. They can be served warm or at room temperature, and may appear as savory or, less commonly, sweet preparations.

Etymology: the word tosta derives from tostar, meaning to toast, with the noun form referring to the toasted bread slice.

See also: pan con tomate; tostada; open-faced sandwich.