Ingredients:
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
4-5 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
Optional: Zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)
For the Bread Toast:
1 French baguette, Italian bread, or your favorite crusty bread
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, black pepper, and any optional ingredients you wish to use (red pepper flakes and lemon zest).
Mix everything together until well blended. You can use a fork or a spatula for this.
Prepare the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices. You can cut them diagonally for presentation if desired.
Spread the Butter:
Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Generously spread the garlic herb butter on one side of each slice.
Toast the Bread:
If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered bread.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Serve warm as a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair perfectly with soups, salads, or any Italian meal!
Tips:
For an even richer flavor, you can broil the toasts for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but keep a very close watch to avoid burning.
Feel free to customize the herb blend based on your preferences. Other great options include oregano or chives.
You can also try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for a garlic bread twist!
Enjoy your Garlic Herb Butter Bread Toast—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful treat for yourself!
