How to make Garlic Toast

Fresh garlic adds a serious bite to ordinary bread.

Garlic toast is a perfect appetizer or side dish for a variety of meals. It is a versatile bread that can be prepared, dipped and topped anyway you choose. It is an easy dish that is perfect for novice cooks and enjoyable for all. Satisfy picky eaters by serving garlic toast alongside a homemade pasta dish. Or impress a hot date by throwing together a fast appetizer of garlic toast bruschetta.

Things You'll Need

• Small bowl
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp. parsley (optional)
• French or Italian bread loaf
• Bread knife
• Aluminum foil
• Conventional oven

Instructions

1. 

   Using a garlic press can eliminate having to peel and chop garlic.

   Take the butter out of the fridge to soften about 30 minutes prior to cooking. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, minced garlic cloves and parsley.

2. 

   Bread knives have serrated teeth. These make it easier to cut through the thick crust and fluffy center of a loaf of bread.

   Cut the French or Italian bread loaf in half horizontally down the center - like a sub sandwich. Evenly spread the butter mixture onto each half of the bread loaf. Then put the two halves of bread back together.

3. Completely enclose the loaf in a piece of aluminum foil and place on the middle rack of an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 15-20 minutes.

4. 

   Serve garlic bread with your favorite pasta dish or with a tomato and olive spread.

   Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before unwrapping. Once unwrapped, unstack the two halves of the toast and place them crust side down, or butter-side up, on a cutting board. Cut each half into inch-thick segments, widthwise - like sliced sandwich bread. If you want cheesy garlic toast, sprinkle the loaf with Parmesan cheese before cutting.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are looking for a vegan version, you can replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil or a combination of both.

References

• Grilled Garlic Bread - Fine Cooking Recipes, Techniques and Tips