Garlic bread is a delightful accompaniment to many meals, originating from Italy. This dish is celebrated worldwide for its simple yet flavorful combination of crusty bread and aromatic garlic butter. The rich, buttery taste with hints of parsley and garlic makes it a favorite at dining tables, especially alongside pasta dishes.
Servings: Serves 4 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian baguette
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed with a garlic press
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise using a bread knife, and place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread using a pastry brush.
5. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered halves.
6. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into pieces.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a cheesy variation, add mozzarella cheese on top and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
- To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads. It also pairs well with marinara sauce for dipping.
Estimated Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes