Slice the tomatoes 1/4 inch thick, and spread equally over 4 flat dishes. Sprinkle with the salt, and let stand for 20 minutes. (This is the trick that extracts flavor.) Then remove excess water with paper towels.

Drizzle each dish of tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of the oil, and season with pepper to taste. Sprinkle with the basil, and serve with country bread to dunk into that delicious juice and clean the plate.

Optional: Some people like to add a drop or two of vinegar or some finely sliced onions.