Oh-So-Garlicky Bread
A vibrant, garlicky bread topped with roasted red peppers, basil, and melted Parmesan, perfect for sharing at parties or as a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat broiler or grill.
- In a bowl, combine roasted red peppers, chopped basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Place the halved loaf of Italian bread cut side up on a rack 4 inches from the heat source or cut side down on a grill over medium coals; toast for 3 minutes or until golden.
- Rub the toasted bread with the peeled and halved garlic clove.
- Top the garlic-rubbed bread with the pepper mixture and return to the broiler for 2 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Cut the bread crosswise into 8 pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try using fresh roasted garlic instead of raw. You can substitute the roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste. If you want a vegan version, replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. This recipe is also great for using up leftover herbs, so feel free to add any you have on hand. Pair with Italian recipes for a complete meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Oh-So-Garlicky Bread is a fantastic appetizer or side dish, perfect for gatherings. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or pair it with Italian Tomato Pie for a delightful meal. For a heartier option, enjoy it with Fettuccine And Garden Vegetable Sauce. Garnish with additional basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oh-So-Garlicky Bread contains roughly 199 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted red pepper mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just toast the bread right before serving and add the topping and cheese, then broil for that fresh, melty finish.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you're out of Parmesan, pecorino Romano is a great alternative, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well, giving a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Can I grill the bread instead of broiling it?
Yes, grilling the bread adds a nice smoky flavor! Just ensure you monitor it closely to prevent burning. After grilling, apply the garlic and top with the pepper mixture before returning it to the grill for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
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).