In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped mozzarella, sliced basil, minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Set this topping mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat your oven broiler to high, or prepare your outdoor grill for medium heat.

Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet (or directly on the grill grates). Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Toast the bread: Place the sheet pan under the broiler, watching carefully, for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and lightly crisp. Alternatively, grill for 1-2 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the bread is toasted.

Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven or grill. If desired, immediately rub one side of each warm slice with a cut clove of garlic for an extra punch of flavor.

Spoon a generous amount of the tomato and mozzarella mixture onto each slice of toasted bread. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.