Simple yet Delightful Garlic Bread Recipe

Garlic bread has been a staple in many households around the world, often served as an appetizer or alongside soups and pasta dishes. Its simple ingredients combined with a burst of flavor from garlic make it perfect for casual meals. This recipe is easy to follow, requiring minimal time and effort while delivering delicious results.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 loaf French bread (about 8 inches long)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
• Salt to taste
• (Optional) Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Number of Servings: 4-6 people

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the loaf of French bread diagonally into slices. Make sure they are about ½ inch thick.

3. Mash the garlic cloves with a fork or press them through a fine sieve until finely minced. You can also use a garlic press, but be careful not to overdo it and make it too bitter.

4. Heat up your butter in a small saucepan on low heat until melted. Alternatively, you can use olive oil if preferred for its lighter flavor.

5. Mix the softened butter (or heated olive oil) with the minced garlic and salt to taste. If desired, add fresh chopped parsley for extra color and freshness.

6. Spread this mixture evenly across each slice of bread on one side. Be generous but not excessive; you want enough flavor without overwhelming the bread.

7. Lay out all the garlic-buttered slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

8. Bake in your preheated oven until golden brown and crispy at the edges, approximately 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn't burn.

9. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• To add more complexity, consider incorporating some additional herbs like rosemary or thyme into the garlic mixture. These will enhance the flavor profile significantly without adding too much effort.

• If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, substituting butter with olive oil works wonders and maintains the integrity of this simple recipe.

• For added texture, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking. It adds richness and depth to every bite.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

The nutritional values listed here are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:

• Calories: ~300 per serving
• Fat Content: ~15 grams
• Carbohydrates: ~45 grams
• Protein: ~7 grams

Conclusion

Garlic bread remains a timeless classic that brings joy to many tables. Whether you're hosting friends for dinner or simply enjoying it as a quick snack, this recipe caters perfectly. Its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal choice whether you want something substantial or light.

The process of making garlic bread is straightforward yet rewarding. It's comforting knowing you can impress your guests without any fancy equipment or techniques. With just these basic ingredients, you'll achieve a dish that packs plenty of flavor in every slice. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste experience it offers!