Delicious Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that can elevate any meal, then our homemade garlic bread is just what you need! This classic side dish is perfect to serve alongside your favorite pasta or as an appetizer with a glass of wine. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves four people generously.

Garlic bread has become a staple in many households for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to pair well with just about any type of meal. The key ingredient that makes this dish special is the garlic. Garlic not only adds flavor but also helps in reducing bad breath according to some research. Garlic can be found at most grocery stores; it's one of those ingredients you should always keep on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• (Optional) Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

To start with, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread loaf into about eight slices. Once done, take a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic cloves with olive oil until they form an evenly distributed paste. You can also add salt and pepper to taste for seasoning. Spread this mixture generously on each slice of bread ensuring no piece is left uncoated with garlic.

For added flavor, sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the top after spreading the garlic mixture if desired. Place all the slices onto your prepped baking tray carefully so they don't overlap too much to allow for even heating during cooking.

Cooking Time

The total time required from start to finish is approximately 30 minutes, with actual preparation being around 15 minutes. After you've prepared everything and placed your bread slices into the oven, bake them at 375°F (190°C) until they are golden brown on both sides and crispy enough that a light tap against the bottom would make it sound hollow.

Number of Servings

This recipe yields four servings. Each serving includes two slices of garlic bread, which is more than adequate for most appetites, especially since it pairs so well with other dishes such as soups or salads.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread

• Don't skip the olive oil: While you could use butter instead of olive oil, using both adds extra richness and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
• Spread thickly but not too much: You want to ensure even coverage while still leaving enough room for other flavors like fresh herbs or grated Parmesan if you choose those additions as well.

Garlic bread isn't just comforting; it's also a delightful way to experiment with different seasonings and toppings. Adding chopped parsley, basil, thyme, or even some sun-dried tomatoes can take this classic side dish into exciting new territory without adding significant complexity to its preparation process.

Why Homemade Garlic Bread Beats Store Bought

While store-bought garlic bread might offer convenience, nothing beats the freshness and quality of homemade. Freshly baked bread retains its moisture better than commercially processed loaves which tend to lose it during packaging and shipping leading to dry, stale products when you finally open them home.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 slices): Calories 150; Fat 6g; Carbohydrates 22g; Protein 4g

Cooking garlic bread isn't just about having a tasty treat. It’s about bringing people together, enjoying a delicious meal, and sharing good times. Try this simple yet impressive recipe today and see how easily it can enhance your dining experience.