Set your oven broiler to high or preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a toaster, simply set it to medium. This recipe works with broiler, skillet, or toaster — choose based on desired char and texture.

Brush

Lightly brush each side of the bread slices with the olive oil (about 1/2 tablespoon total). This helps achieve an even golden crust and keeps the bread from drying out.

Toast

Place bread under the broiler on a rimmed baking sheet about 4–6 inches from the heat for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred at the edges. If using a skillet, toast 1–2 minutes per side over medium-high heat until golden. If using a toaster, toast to medium. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Finish and Serve

Butter and Season

While the toast is still hot, spread the 1 tablespoon unsalted butter evenly over one side so it melts into the bread. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon sea salt lightly and evenly over the buttered surface (or across both slices if serving shared).

Optional Garlic Rub

If using garlic, immediately after toasting and before buttering (or after for a stronger flavor), rub the cut side of the half garlic clove lightly over the hot toast. The heat will release a mild garlic aroma and flavor.

Add Optional Toppings

Choose any optional topping(s): spread jam or marmalade (1 tsp), drizzle honey (1 tsp) and sprinkle parmesan (1 tsp) for a sweet-savory note, or drizzle 1/2 teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle crushed red pepper (1/4 tsp) and chopped parsley (1 tsp) for a savory, slightly spicy finish. Adjust quantities to taste.

Serve

Cut the toast in half if desired and serve immediately as a side order with eggs, soup, salad, or any main dish. Leftover toast is best eaten the same day; to refresh, re-toast briefly.