Herbed Garlic Bread

Name: Herbed Garlic Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Isabella

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Looking for the ultimate garlic bread recipe that will elevate any meal? This Herbed Garlic Bread is a classic that combines the rich flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and butter. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to Italian dishes, hearty soups, or even a simple salad. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the French bread.

Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered bread.

Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet with the cut side facing up. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy around the edges.

Serve: Slice and serve the bread warm. Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite main course.

Serving Tips:

Serve Warm: Herbed Garlic Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve it warm to maintain its crispy exterior and soft interior.

Pair with Dips: Enhance your garlic bread experience by serving it with marinara sauce, balsamic vinegar, or even a creamy cheese dip for extra flavor.

Make It a Meal: Turn your garlic bread into a meal by topping it with sautéed mushrooms, melted mozzarella, or sliced tomatoes. It can also be served as a base for bruschetta.

Slice Carefully: Use a serrated knife to slice the bread into even pieces, ensuring that each slice has a generous coating of the herbed butter.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, store the garlic bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to two days.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep in mind that refrigeration can make the bread a bit tougher, so reheating is recommended.

Freezing: To freeze garlic bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the bread at room temperature and then reheat it in the oven.

Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. If the bread is frozen, you can reheat it directly from the freezer by placing it in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Related Recipes:

Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread

FAQs:

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in this Herbed Garlic Bread recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones if needed. The general rule is to use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs, since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. For example, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, basil, or oregano in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Can I make Herbed Garlic Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Wrap the prepared bread in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven as directed. For longer storage, consider freezing the prepared bread.

What can I use as a substitute for French bread in this recipe?

If you don’t have French bread, you can use any crusty bread like a baguette, ciabatta, or even a sourdough loaf. Just adjust the amount of garlic butter accordingly to ensure the bread is evenly coated.

How can I make this garlic bread vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the unsalted butter with a vegan butter substitute. Make sure the substitute is one that’s designed for baking, as it will need to soften and spread well on the bread. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion:

This Herbed Garlic Bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or salad, this garlic bread recipe is a must-try!

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