WHISK together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar and garlic in a small bowl until well combined. PREHEAT the oven to 400°F/200°C. CUT the baguette in half horizontally, then cut in half lengthwise to make four pieces. PLACE the pieces, cut side up, on a baking tray. SPRINKLE the cheese in an even layer over each base. ARRANGE equal amounts of the sliced tomatoes on top. DRIZZLE or brush the vinegar-oil-garlic mixture over the tomatoes. BAKE for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and transfer to a serving plate. SPRINKLE with a little salt and freshly ground pepper then arrange the fresh basil leaves evenly on top. SERVE immediately.

Variations: Use fresh mozzarella, and arrange it in thin slices on the baguette bases before adding the tomato. If your basil leaves are on the large side, just roughly chop or tear them first.