Garlic Bread
This simple recipe quickly transforms a loaf of crusty bread into delicious garlic bread. Freshly crushed garlic is gently infused into a butter and olive oil mixture. The bread is then lightly toasted under the broiler, brushed generously with the aromatic garlic oil, and finished with optional grated cheese and fresh parsley for a golden, flavorful side dish. Perfect for any meal.
Equipment
- 1 Small Saucepan Alternatively, a microwave-safe dish.
- 1 Baking Sheet For broiling the bread.
- 1 Pastry Brush For even application of garlic oil.
- 1 Chef's knife For crushing garlic and cutting bread.
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main
- 4 cloves garlic crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 loaf crusty bread split
- 3 tablespoons grated cheese Parmigiano or Romano, optional
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Combine garlic, butter, and oil in a microwave safe dish or in a small saucepan. Heat garlic and butter and oil in microwave for 1 minute or in a small pot over moderate-low heat for 3 minutes.
- Toast split bread under broiler. Remove bread when it is toasted golden brown in color. Brush bread liberally with garlic oil. Sprinkle with cheese, if using, and parsley. If you added cheese, return to broiler and brown 30 seconds. Cut into chunks and serve.
Notes
The key to exceptional garlic bread lies in the quality of your ingredients and careful execution. Ensure your garlic is freshly crushed; avoid pre-minced for superior flavor. When heating the garlic, butter, and olive oil, do so gently. The goal is to infuse the oil with garlic essence, not to fry the garlic, which can lead to bitterness. A moderate-low heat ensures a slow infusion without burning. For an extra layer of garlic punch, rub the toasted bread halves with a raw garlic clove before brushing with the infused oil. Be vigilant while broiling; bread can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. Consider a blend of Parmigiano for sharpness and a touch of finely shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs beyond parsley, like chives or oregano, can elevate the aroma and taste. For added depth, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic oil offers a subtle warmth.