Ripe Summer Tomato Gratin with Basil (Gratin de Tomates au Basilic)

Preheat oven to 400°.

Tear bread with your hands to form coarse crumbs; spread in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400° for 3 minutes or until lightly toasted. Combine breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons oil, parsley, thyme, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.

Cut tomatoes into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Place tomatoes in a shallow dish; sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add remaining 1/4 cup oil, torn basil, vinegar, garlic, and shallot; toss gently to coat.

Arrange tomato slices in a shallow 3- to 4-quart glass or ceramic baking dish. Pour any remaining liquid from the bowl over the tomatoes. Bake at 400° for 15 minutes (tomatoes should still be firm). Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over tomatoes. Bake at 400° for 10 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden. Remove dish from oven; let stand 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with small basil leaves, if desired.