Begin by dicing the ripe fresh tomatoes into ¼-inch pieces and place them in a medium mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt and fresh ground black pepper, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Gently toss to combine and let sit for 10 minutes.

While the tomato mixture is resting, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly drizzle the slices of bread with olive oil on both sides. Grill the bread for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Once the bread is grilled, remove from heat and let cool briefly. Rub a whole garlic clove over one side of each toasted slice.

Spoon a generous portion of the tomato mixture onto each slice of garlic-rubbed bread. Drizzle any remaining juices from the bowl over the toppings.

Sprinkle the thinly sliced basil leaves over the top of each piece. Add torn pieces of fresh mozzarella if desired. Serve immediately.