Herb And Cheese Bread
Herb and cheese bread combines melty mozzarella, fresh basil, and savory herbs on crusty French bread, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine reserved tomato liquid, margarine, 1 1/2 cups cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, salt, and oregano. Process until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto each half of the French bread.
- Top with diced tomatoes, remaining cheese, and chopped basil.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Slice into 1 1/2-inch slices and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley works in a pinch, just use about one-third of the amount. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a creamier texture. Using a mix of cheeses, like cheddar or feta, can enhance the taste as well.
Serving Suggestions
This Herb And Cheese Bread makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or as a complement to a hearty soup, such as tomato basil soup. It also pairs beautifully with Capirotad (Bread Pudding) for a delightful meal. For a more casual setting, slice it into smaller pieces for a party platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty. This method helps retain the bread's original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb And Cheese Bread contains roughly 362 calories, with 17g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 570mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Just dice them and make sure to drain any excess juice to avoid sogginess. Using fresh tomatoes will give your bread a vibrant flavor and texture.
What can I do if I don’t have a food processor?
If you don't have a food processor, you can use a mixing bowl and a fork or a hand mixer to combine the ingredients. Just make sure to mash the margarine well and thoroughly mix in the other components to achieve a smooth consistency.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, spread it on the bread and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
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).