I cook, therefore I exist.

I think, therefore I exist. French geometrician René Descartes in his famous essay "Discourse on the Method" created one of the most appealing ideas produced thanks to the typical human self-awareness. Thinking cannot be separated from the human mind, meaning that every human being thinks, therefore his/her existence is established beyond doubt. Where am I heading for with this? Give me a minute, and I'll make my point. ;)



More recently, Portuguese neurologist António Damásio came up with the idea that "I feel, therefore I am" in a wonderful book called "The Feeling of What Happens: Body, Emotion and the Making of Consciousness". Questions such as Who am I? Where do I come from? And what shall I have for lunch? Tough questions that may never get an answer! António Damásio believes our emotions hold the key to consciousness. Me too. Which proves nothing except my respect and admiration for the man. My point is I need to cook. It's not a mission or a task. It's simply my way of feeling alive. And that's the reason why I cook even when I travel or when I'm on vacations abroad. Easy, light meals such as salads, sandwiches or bruschettas to make me happy. Cooking cannot be separated from me, therefore, I exist!



Tomato and Basil Bruschetta with Prosciutto

Serves 2

2 thick slices of (sourdough) bread, toasted on a griddle pan, both sides
1 garlic glove, peeled
good quality extra virgin olive oil
balsamic vinegar
4-6 ripe Cherry tomatoes, halved
4 fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
2 thin large slices of prosciutto
salt and pepper

Place the tomatoes in a bowl. Add the basil, season with salt and pepper, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a little balsamic vinegar, to taste. Cut the garlic glove and rub on the bread (it should be warm when you do this). Drizzle with olive oil. Place each slice on a plate, and add a spoonful of the basil and tomato mixture pushing gently with your fingers so flavours pass to the bread. Top with the prosciutto. Serve warm.