Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

Tomato Basil Garlic Bread has become a fresh favorite at our summer gatherings and family movie nights It is everything you want in a comfort snack crisp at the edges soft in the middle with oozing cheese and fragrant basil Everything comes together with hardly any effort yet tastes like a treat from a cozy Italian bakery

The first time I made this I used fresh basil from our tiny windowsill garden and it made every bite pop with flavor Now it is on regular rotation whenever friends drop by or the kids want something special after school

Ingredients

• Italian bread or baguette: Choose a fresh loaf for the best texture Soft inside with a crunchy crust is ideal
• Olive oil or melted butter: This adds flavor and helps crisp up the bread Opt for a good olive oil for extra richness
• Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses every bite with savory goodness Look for firm fresh bulbs for the best fragrance
• Italian seasoning: Optional but gives a herby kick Use a blend with oregano basil thyme
• Tomatoes: Choose large ripe ones for juicy layers Heirloom or vine ripened tomatoes add the most sweetness
• Fresh basil leaves: Adds a hit of brightness and balances the richness Pick leaves that are deep green and unbruised
• Mozzarella cheese: Go for pre shredded for convenience or grate fresh mozzarella for the ultimate melt
• Parmesan cheese: Optional for a salty nutty finish Buy a wedge and freshly grate for best results
• Salt and pepper: Just a little highlights all the flavors Use kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper if you have them

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred ninety degrees Celsius so it is hot and ready for bubbling cheese

Prepare the Bread:

Slice your Italian bread horizontally or into portions as you like Lay the pieces cut side up on a parchment lined baking sheet or a bare tray for a crispier finish

Garlic and Herb Spread:

Mix olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat every slice from edge to edge so the flavors soak in

Assemble the Toppings:

Arrange slices of tomato evenly over the garlic bread Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to draw out the tomato juices and balance the richness

Cheese It Up:

Scatter shredded mozzarella generously over the tomatoes Finish with a handful of Parmesan for extra savory depth if you want your bread especially cheesy

Bake:

Slide your tray into the oven Bake for ten to fifteen minutes Watch for the cheese to melt and bubble with the edges of the bread turning golden brown

Add Fresh Basil:

Pull the bread from the oven and while it is still hot shower it with lots of freshly chopped basil This keeps the basil bright and aromatic

Serve:

Cut your bread into slices or sections Serve right away while the cheese is gooey and the bread is fragrant and warm

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I absolutely love how the cheese bubbles up and sometimes gets those little golden spots That crunch combined with juicy tomatoes brings back memories of my grandmother letting us sneak a bite before dinner was officially served

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat use an oven or toaster oven so the bread stays crisp Microwave works if you are in a hurry but the bread may soften For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month Lay pieces directly from the freezer onto a baking sheet and bake until steaming and cheese is melty again

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Italian bread a sturdy French loaf or ciabatta works just as beautifully You can swap mozzarella for cheddar fontina or provolone For a dairy free version try your favorite plant based cheese Skip Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast for a savory edge Cherry tomatoes sliced in half are a fun colorful twist if large tomatoes are not around

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer cut into fingers for dipping into marinara Pair with a green salad and grilled chicken for a fast dinner offering Or use as a side with your favorite soup especially tomato or minestrone Making mini slices on baguette rounds turns it into the perfect party canapé

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Enjoy this quick and flavorful recipe with your loved ones in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely. While Italian bread or baguette works best for a sturdy base, ciabatta or even rustic sourdough can be substituted for a different texture and flavor.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with your preferred dairy-free cheese alternatives for a similar melty result.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Assemble the bread with toppings ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This pairs well with salads, soups, or pasta. It's also delicious on its own as a snack or party appetizer.

→ How do I achieve extra crispy edges?

Brush the bread generously with olive oil or butter and bake until the cheese bubbles and edges are golden brown for added crunch.