Garlic Herb Bread

Garlic herb bread, with its enticing aroma and mouthwatering flavors, is a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, alongside a pasta dish, or as a standalone treat, this bread is a versatile crowd-pleaser that combines the warmth of freshly baked bread with the bold flavors of garlic and aromatic herbs. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating your own homemade garlic herb bread that’s sure to infuse your kitchen with the delicious scent of fresh-baked goodness.

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bread:

• 1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf
• Extra fresh parsley and basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Use a fork or spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are well incorporated and form a fragrant, herb-infused butter. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French baguette or Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise, creating two equal halves.

Step 3: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter

1. Spread the prepared garlic herb butter generously over the cut sides of each bread half. Ensure the butter mixture is evenly distributed across the bread.

Step 4: Reassemble the Bread

1. Place the two halves of the bread back together, with the garlic herb butter sides facing each other, effectively reassembling the loaf.

Step 5: Wrap in Foil

1. Wrap the entire bread loaf in aluminum foil, ensuring it’s tightly sealed. This will help the bread heat evenly and infuse the flavors as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Garlic Herb Bread

1. Place the foil-wrapped bread loaf in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the garlic herb butter has melted, infusing the bread with its aromatic flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Carefully remove the foil-wrapped garlic herb bread from the oven.
2. If desired, garnish with additional fresh parsley and basil for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Slice the bread into individual servings and serve it warm.

Garlic herb bread is a delightful addition to any meal or a tasty snack on its own. With its aromatic garlic and herb-infused butter, this bread is a simple yet flavorful treat that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether served at a gathering, as a side dish, or just to satisfy a craving for savory goodness, homemade garlic herb bread is a delightful way to enjoy the comforting aroma and taste of fresh-baked bread.