Garlic bread is a timeless classic, perfect for accompanying any meal, from pasta to a simple salad. Using olive oil instead of butter changes the taste of the bread a little bit, but still makes it crunchy & smell really good. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make garlic bread with olive oil:
Ingredients
- Bread:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or French baguette is ideal. You can also use any bread you prefer, but Italian or French bread works best due to its crusty texture.
- Olive Oil:
- Use 1/2 cup of good olive oil. Good olive oil will make the garlic bread taste better.
- Garlic:
- 4-6 pieces of fresh garlic. You can add more or less depending on how much you like garlic.
- Herbs:
- tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped. You can also use dried parsley if fresh isn’t available.
- Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste.
- Black pepper, to taste. Freshly ground is best.
- Optional:
- a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- I grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Preparation
1. Prepare the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Turn on your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- Slice the Bread: Take your loaf of bread and slice it in half lengthwise. If you’re using a baguette, you can cut it into smaller, individual pieces.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the bread halves or pieces on a baking sheet cut side up.
2. Prepare the Garlic-Olive Oil Mixture
- Mince the Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves & mince them finely. For a finer consistency, you can use a garlic press, which will help distribute the garlic flavor more evenly throughout the bread.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the minced garlic with the extra-virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Stir well to ensure that the garlic is evenly distributed in the oil. This is the base of your garlic bread spread.
- Add Herbs and Seasoning: Add the finely chopped parsley to the garlic-oil mixture. This adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the bread—season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle a little bit of red pepper flakes at this point.
3. Apply the Garlic-Olive Oil Mixture
- Brush or Spread: Use a pastry brush or a spoon to evenly spread the garlic-oil mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Ensure you thoroughly cover the bread with the mixture to infuse it with garlic flavor.
- Optional Cheese: If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the garlic-oil mixture. This will create a deliciously crispy, cheesy crust as the bread bakes.
4. Bake the Garlic Bread
- Baking: Put the baking sheet in the hot oven. Cook the garlic bread for 10 to 15 minutes or until the edges are brilliant brown and firm. The cooking time may be different relying upon your broiler & how thick the bread is, so watch it near ignite sure it doesn’t.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want the top to be extra crispy, use the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Cool and Serve
- Cool Slightly: After the garlic bread is finished baking, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a little while. This allows the flavors to settle & makes it easier to slice.
- Slice and Serve: If you haven’t already, cut the bread into individual serving pieces. Garlic bread is best served warm, so try to serve it as soon as possible.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Pre-minced or jarred garlic can be convenient, but it may have a different robust taste.
- Adjust Garlic Quantity: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of garlic. If you love garlic, add more; if you prefer a milder taste, use fewer cloves.
- Herb Variations: You can experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Fresh herbs add a delightful aroma and flavor to the garlic bread.
- Store Leftovers: If you have extra food, put it in a sealed container and keep it at room temperature for no more than 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness.
- Make Ahead: You can make the garlic-oil mix and keep it in the fridge for a week. Just remember to let it warm up to room temp before using it.
Variations
- Garlic Bread with Tomato: Slice tomatoes and add them to the garlic bread before baking for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent version, mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the garlic-oil mixture or sprinkle on top before baking.
- Stuffed Garlic Bread: For a fun variation, hollow out the bread slightly and fill it with a mixture of cheese and herbs before baking.
Conclusion:
Garlic bread with olive oil offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Combining fresh garlic, quality olive oil, and optional herbs and cheese creates a flavorful, crispy treat that’s perfect for any meal. This garlic bread is a delicious addition to your culinary repertoire, easy to prepare and customizable. Enjoy!
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