Garlic Toast
Garlic toast features crispy, buttered bread infused with garlic, basil, and sesame seeds, perfect as a flavorful side or snack for gatherings and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the butter and add sesame seed, sweet basil, garlic powder, and salt to taste.
- Slice the French bread in half lengthwise, then cut it into smaller sections as desired.
- Butter three sides of each bread piece generously with the seasoned butter.
- Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving, then store leftovers in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder. You can also substitute the sweet basil with Italian seasoning or oregano for a different herb profile. If you're short on butter, using a mix of olive oil and butter will still yield a deliciously toasted bread. For a twist, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic toast makes an excellent appetizer or side dish, perfect for complementing soups, salads, or pasta dishes. It pairs beautifully with Roy'S Chocolate Pie for dessert or can be served alongside a fresh garden salad. For a brunch option, enjoy it with scrambled eggs or as a base for avocado toast. Don't forget to take a look at American recipes for more delicious ideas.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled garlic toast in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pieces in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Toast contains roughly 559 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use other types of bread like sourdough or ciabatta if you prefer. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust baking time if the bread is thicker or denser.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as vegan margarine or coconut oil. Ensure that the bread you choose is also vegan-friendly, as some may contain dairy.
Can I add cheese to the garlic toast?
Absolutely! Adding cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to the top of the buttered bread before baking will create a delightful cheesy garlic toast. Just be mindful to adjust the baking time to ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).