Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Taleggio and Herbs

Pumpernickel bread offers much more flavor than the average crusty white wheat loaf for this take on a delicious finger food from Italy. Purchase a presliced loaf or buy a whole one and slice it ½ inch thick. We take plum tomatoes, which are drier and firmer than standard round tomatoes, and roast them in the oven to soften their texture and concentrate their flavor. Taleggio is a rich, semisoft northern Italian cheese that has a pungent aroma but a mild, subtly nutty flavor. If it’s not available, brie is a great alternative. We top the bruschetta just before serving with a tangle of chopped fresh herbs and greens.