Spicy Garlic Bread

Spicy Garlic Bread Recipe from Italy - French bread with butter, garlic, basil, oregano, and parsley

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spicy garlic bread is a delicious and flavorful twist on traditional garlic bread. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice makes this bread a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

History

Garlic bread has been a popular dish for centuries, with origins in Italian cuisine. The addition of spices and herbs to garlic bread is a more recent innovation, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ingredients

1 loaf of French or italian bread
1 cup of butter
0.5 tsp of garlic powder
2 tsp of basil
a dash of oregano
1 clove of garlic
2 tsp of parsley

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and spread the mixture over the bread.
Bake for 9–11 minutes.
Remove from the oven, spread more butter on top, and broil for 2–5 minutes.

Variations

Add grated cheese on top before broiling for a cheesy twist.
Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of spice to suit your taste preferences.

- Be careful not to burn the bread under the broiler.

Serving Suggestions

Serve spicy garlic bread alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads.

Cooking Techniques

Baking and broiling

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve spicy garlic bread on a wooden cutting board for a rustic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair spicy garlic bread with a hearty pasta dish or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover spicy garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spicy garlic bread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spicy garlic bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spicy garlic bread contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spicy garlic bread contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy garlic bread is a good source of vitamin C and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten and dairy.

Summary

Spicy garlic bread is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that is relatively high in calories and fat.

Summary

Spicy garlic bread is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and spice, this bread is a flavorful addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Lucia, was known far and wide for her delicious cooking, and I was always eager to learn from her.

One day, I was helping Nonna Lucia in the kitchen when she pulled out a loaf of bread and started to work her magic. She minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and sprinkled red pepper flakes into a bowl. I watched in awe as she mixed everything together with a generous amount of olive oil, creating a fragrant paste that made my mouth water.

As she spread the garlic mixture onto the bread and popped it into the oven, the smell that filled the kitchen was heavenly. When the bread emerged, golden and crispy, Nonna Lucia sliced it into thick pieces and handed me a piece to try. The first bite was a revelation – the bread was spicy, savory, and utterly delicious.

I begged Nonna Lucia to teach me how to make the spicy garlic bread, and she smiled at me with pride. She shared with me the story of how she had learned the recipe from a dear friend many years ago, and how she had put her own twist on it over the years. I listened intently as she explained each step, from mincing the garlic to toasting the bread to perfection.

I practiced making the spicy garlic bread every chance I got, and soon I was able to recreate Nonna Lucia's masterpiece with ease. I shared the recipe with my friends and family, who were equally impressed by the bold flavors and comforting warmth of the bread.

Over the years, I have continued to make the spicy garlic bread for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I bake a fresh batch, the memories of learning the recipe from Nonna Lucia come flooding back to me. I can still hear her voice guiding me through each step, and feel her presence in the kitchen with me.

The spicy garlic bread has become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, a cherished recipe that I pass down to my own grandchildren now. I always tell them the story of how I learned to make it from Nonna Lucia, and how the simple act of cooking together can create lasting memories and traditions.

I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, and for the love and knowledge that Nonna Lucia passed down to me. The spicy garlic bread will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that comes from sharing food with loved ones. And as I continue to cook and bake for my family, I know that Nonna Lucia's spirit lives on in every dish I create.