Homemade Garlic Bread

California Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe with Parmesan Cheese and Basil

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 3 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Garlic bread is a popular side dish that is loved by many for its deliciously savory and garlicky flavor. This homemade version is easy to make and will surely impress your family and friends.

History

Garlic bread has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Italy, where it was traditionally made with olive oil, garlic, and herbs on top of a loaf of bread. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, including the use of butter and cheese.

Ingredients

1 slice of bread (white, French, or sourdough is preferred.)
garlic spread
butter
parmesan cheese
basil

How to prepare

Toast the bread until it is lightly crispy (do not over-toast, as it will be toasted further later on).
Remove from the toaster oven and spread a layer of butter on the bread.
Apply a layer of garlic spread on top of the butter.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and basil on top, then toast for another minute or two.

Variations

Add chopped parsley or oregano for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of garlic spread and Parmesan cheese to suit your taste preferences.

- Keep an eye on the bread while toasting to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread is best served warm alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the bread ensures that it is crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Substitute the sourdough bread with French bread or baguette.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic spread in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the garlic bread on a wooden cutting board or a decorative plate for a rustic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Garlic bread pairs well with Italian dishes such as spaghetti, lasagna, or chicken parmesan.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 20g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic bread is a good source of vitamin B6 and manganese.

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter, Parmesan cheese)

Summary

Garlic bread is a delicious treat that is relatively high in calories and fats, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Homemade garlic bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that is perfect for any meal. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this flavorful treat in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Homemade Garlic Bread. It was a warm summer day, and my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, invited me over for a cup of tea. As we chatted in her cozy kitchen, the scent of garlic and butter wafted through the air, making my mouth water.

Mrs. Jenkins noticed my interest in the enticing aroma and smiled knowingly. "Ah, you've caught a whiff of my famous Homemade Garlic Bread," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, and Mrs. Jenkins ushered me over to her kitchen counter, where she had all the ingredients laid out neatly. She began to explain the recipe to me, her voice soft and melodic as she shared her tips and tricks for creating the perfect garlic bread.

First, she instructed me to slice a loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and spread a generous layer of softened butter on each half. Then, she crushed several cloves of garlic and mixed them with chopped parsley, salt, and pepper before spreading the fragrant mixture evenly over the buttered bread.

As Mrs. Jenkins popped the prepared garlic bread into the oven, she regaled me with stories of how she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. She shared how she had added her own twist to the recipe over the years, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.

I watched in awe as the garlic bread baked to a golden perfection, the buttery aroma filling the kitchen with a tantalizing scent. Mrs. Jenkins pulled the bread out of the oven and sliced it into thick, crusty pieces, inviting me to try a bite.

The first taste was pure heaven – the bread was crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with the perfect balance of garlic and butter. I savored each bite, savoring the warm memories of that summer day spent in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, learning a recipe that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Homemade Garlic Bread countless times, each batch evoking memories of that fateful day with Mrs. Jenkins. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition just as she did with me.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a fresh batch of garlic bread, I can't help but smile as the familiar scent fills the air. This recipe is more than just a dish – it's a connection to the past, a reminder of the bonds we create through food and shared experiences.

And as I take a bite of the warm, buttery bread, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned, the memories I have made, and the simple joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that can be found in a simple loaf of bread, a clove of garlic, and a dash of love.