Classic Herb Garlic Bread
This traditional garlic bread recipe is enhanced with fresh herbs to create an aromatic and flavourful side dish. It's perfect for pairing with pasta dishes or enjoyed on its own, providing a delightful crunch and depth of flavour with every bite.
- Total
- 20 min
- Serves
- 3
- Level
- Everyday
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
3 servings
For the garlic herb butter
- 90 grams unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, finely minced
- 15 grams fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 15 grams fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
For the bread
- 1 large French baguette or Italian bread
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 10 min
About this recipe
Garlic bread dates back to ancient times, often made by rubbing garlic on bread and drizzling it with olive oil. This classic version enhances that simplicity with the addition of fresh herbs, drawing inspiration from Italian cuisine where good ingredients shine. Pairing simple bread with garlic and herbs provides a warm, inviting dish that complements pasta beautifully, as popularised in Italian restaurants around the world.
Method
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Step 1: Prepare the garlic herb butter
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
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Step 2: Prepare the bread
Slice the French baguette or Italian bread in half lengthwise. Place the two halves cut-side up on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even baking.
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Step 3: Spread the garlic herb butter
Using a butter knife, generously spread the garlic herb butter on the cut side of both halves of the bread, ensuring an even layer covering the entire surface.
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Step 4: Bake the garlic bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C. Place the baking sheet with the prepared bread in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy, and the butter is bubbling.
Keep a close eye to avoid burning. The garlic bread should bubble and be golden brown when done. -
Step 5: Slice and serve
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for 1-2 minutes. Slice into manageable pieces and serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favourite pasta or on its own as a delightful snack.
Tips
- For extra richness, add grated Parmesan cheese to the garlic herb butter before spreading it on the bread.
- Experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or oregano for different flavour profiles.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic herb butter mix.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Butter knife
- Oven
Serve it with
Sides
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Greek Salad
The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the rich garlic butter.
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Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a healthy and colourful element, complementing the flavours of the garlic bread.
Goes well with
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Creamy Tomato Pasta
The garlic bread pairs perfectly with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
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Pasta Primavera
This dish full of fresh vegetables pairs beautifully with herb garlic bread.
Drinks
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Chardonnay
A glass of Chardonnay complements the buttery and herbal notes of the garlic bread, enhancing the experience.
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Sparkling Water
Sparkling water can cleanse the palate and is a refreshing non-alcoholic option to enjoy with garlic bread.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
