Why Make This Recipe
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. It’s perfect as an appetizer, a side dish for soups, or just a tasty snack. The combination of melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil makes each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to make and takes just a short time to prepare!
How to Make Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette or Italian loaf, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil for drizzling
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter and minced garlic. Spread this mix onto each slice of bread.
- Top the garlic bread with shredded mozzarella cheese and tomato slices. Add a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried herbs on top.
- Place the prepared bread slices in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Serve warm for the best taste!
How to Serve Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is best served warm. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside a bowl of soup, salad, or pasta. It makes for a beautiful addition to any gathering or family meal.
How to Store Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the bread fresh, eat it within a couple of days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture before serving again.
Tips to Make Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially ripe tomatoes and fresh basil.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the bread a little longer, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like Parmesan or feta, for a unique taste.
Variation
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes on top of the tomatoes before baking. You could also try using different herbs or add some sliced olives for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! You can use any type of bread you like, such as ciabatta or sourdough, as long as it can hold the toppings.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread slices with toppings in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
3. What can I do with leftover garlic bread?
You can use leftover garlic bread for sandwiches or toast them again for a crunchy snack. They pair well with many dishes!
Tomato Basil Garlic Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf 1 baguette or Italian loaf, sliced Use fresh bread for the best texture.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp butter, softened Softened for easy spreading.
- 2 cloves 2 garlic cloves, minced Adds rich flavor.
- 1 cup 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully on the bread.
- 2 medium 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced Fresh tomatoes for best flavor.
- to taste Fresh basil leaves For topping.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp dried Italian herbs Enhances the flavor profile.
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper For seasoning.
- for drizzling Olive oil Enhances flavor when drizzled on top.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter and minced garlic. Spread this mix onto each slice of bread.
- Top the garlic bread with shredded mozzarella cheese and tomato slices. Add a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried herbs on top.
Baking
- Place the prepared bread slices in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Serve warm for the best taste!