Green Tomato Casserole

4 thickly sliced French bread slices, torn into small pieces (about 2 cups)
4 medium green tomatoes, cut into ¼-inch slices (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar
1 tablespoon butter

1. Preheat oven to 400F. Lightly grease a 1½-quart casserole, deep-dish pie pan, or 4 ramekins.
2. Place bread in a food processor and pulse to a coarse texture. Combine sugar, salt and pepper in a small bowl; mix well.
3. Arrange one-third of the tomato slices in the bottom of pan. Sprinkle one-third of the sugar mixture, one-third of the bread crumbs, and 1/3 cup Cheddar over tomatoes. Repeat with a second layer. For third layer, add remaining tomatoes, sugar mixture and bread crumbs. Dot with butter. Cover with foil.
4. Bake1 hour. Uncover and sprinkle remaining 1/3 cup Cheddar on top. Bake 5 minutes longer, or until cheese melts. Remove from oven and let stand 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Serves 4.

Nutritional facts per serving: 280 calories, 13g fat, 12g protein, 29g carbohydrates, 3g fiber, 750mg sodium.