Classic Garlic Bread: The Perfect Side for Every Meal
- Steve Holloway
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
Introduction:
Garlic bread is a timeless favourite that instantly elevates any meal with its irresistible aroma and rich, savoury flavour. Whether served alongside pasta, soups, or as a stand-alone snack, this classic recipe combines golden, crusty bread with a generous spread of fragrant garlic butter, parsley, and a touch of sea salt for a deliciously comforting treat. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, garlic bread is a must-have for any kitchen, promising to delight your taste buds and add a burst of colour to your table.
Cuisine -World - Side Dish
- Serves 4
Table of contents
Cooking times,
Prep time: 10 minutes; Cooking time: 12 minutes. Recipe Difficulty: Easy—perfect for beginners. Special Equipment Needed: None, just a baking tray and a small mixing bowl. Heat Level: Mild, with no spicy ingredients, making it suitable for all ages.
Nutritional values for
For a standard serving (one slice) of classic garlic bread, the approximate nutritional values are: Calories: 180 kcal; Protein: 3g; Fat: 9g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Carbohydrates: 20g; Sugars: 1g; Fibre: 1g; Sodium: 250mg. Values may vary depending on bread type and portion size, so adjust accordingly for your final recipe.
A little History
Garlic bread has its roots in Italian cuisine, inspired by bruschetta—a traditional appetiser of toasted bread topped with garlic, olive oil, and herbs. When Italian immigrants arrived in the UK and other English-speaking countries, they adapted the recipe using butter instead of olive oil and often incorporated parsley or cheese for added flavour. Today, garlic bread is a beloved side dish, especially popular with pasta and pizza, celebrated for its comforting aroma and rich taste.
Fun Fact
“Did you know? The irresistible aroma of garlic bread comes from a compound called allicin, released when fresh garlic is chopped or crushed—it's what makes every slice smell so delicious!”
Recipe for - Classic garlic bread
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Ingredients:
- 1 French baguette or Italian loaf
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: 30g grated Parmesan cheese
Method
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise or cut into thick slices, as preferred.
3. In a bowl, mix together the butter, garlic, parsley, and sea salt until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the bread.
5. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra flavour.
6. Place the bread on a baking tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Here are five cooks tips for this recipe
1. Use fresh garlic for the best flavour—avoid pre-minced or powdered varieties.
2. Let the butter soften at room temperature for easier mixing and spreading.
3. For extra crunch, bake the bread uncovered; for softer bread, wrap it in foil.
4. Add a sprinkle of grated cheese or a pinch of chilli flakes for a tasty twist.
5. Chop parsley just before adding it to preserve its colour and fresh aroma.
Pairs well with:
Frequently asked questions for garlic bread
Can I use any type of bread for garlic bread?
Yes, while a French baguette or Italian loaf is traditional, you can use any crusty bread you prefer, including ciabatta or even sliced sandwich bread.
Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the buttered bread, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving for best results.
Can I freeze garlic bread?
Yes, assemble the bread and freeze it before baking. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure your bread is dairy-free.
Can I add extra herbs or cheese?
Certainly! Try adding oregano, basil, or rosemary, and sprinkle with your favourite cheese for added flavour.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Classic Garlic Bread from Stevie’s Curry Magic is a simple yet delicious addition to any meal, bringing warmth, flavour, and comfort to your table. With its crisp crust, aromatic garlic butter, and fresh herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favourite for family gatherings and casual dinners alike. Enjoy making and sharing this easy treat, and remember—great food is all about creating memories and magic in your kitchen.
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Cheers Steve.
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