Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that elevates any meal with its rich, buttery flavor and tantalizing aroma. This recipe combines fresh garlic, herbs, and quality butter to create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for pasta nights, barbecues, or as a snack, this garlic bread will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to make this delightful treat!
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while the cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1 oz):
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 9g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 1g
– Protein: 3g
This nutritional value is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both halves of the bread.
5. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet, cut side up.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
8. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute.
10. Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil for a healthier option, or use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Fresh garlic can be swapped for garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, salads, and grilled meats. It also makes a fantastic appetizer on its own, served with marinara or pesto for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
To store, wrap leftover garlic bread in aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Garlic bread can be frozen; wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid using too much salt; it can overpower the flavor.
– Don’t skip the broiling step if you want a crispy top.
– Ensure the butter is softened for easy spreading.
– Be careful not to burn the bread while broiling.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Don’t let the bread sit too long after baking; serve it warm.
Helpful Tips
– For a twist, add herbs like oregano or basil to the butter mix.
– Use a serrated knife for easier slicing of the bread.
– Experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.
– If using frozen garlic bread, bake directly from frozen without thawing.
FAQs
Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
How can I make garlic bread spicy?
To add some heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper in the garlic butter mixture.
What types of bread work best for garlic bread?
French and Italian bread are ideal due to their crusty exterior and soft interior. However, you can also use ciabatta or even baguettes.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can use garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic.
Is garlic bread vegan?
Traditional garlic bread is not vegan due to butter. However, you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based butter or olive oil.
How do I know when my garlic bread is done?
Garlic bread is done when the edges are golden brown and crispy. If you broil it, keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I freeze garlic bread?
Yes, garlic bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
This garlic bread recipe is a must-try for any garlic lover! With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s an excellent addition to any meal. Enjoy the warm, buttery goodness straight from the oven, and watch it quickly disappear at your dinner table. Try it today and make your meals memorable!
Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise.
- In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both halves of the bread.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread.
- Place the bread on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute.
- Slice into pieces and serve warm.