Tomato Basil Garlic Bread (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Bread Base
01 -
1 loaf Italian bread or baguette, fresh
→ Garlic Herb Mixture
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
03 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
04 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional
→ Toppings
05 -
2 large tomatoes, sliced
06 -
Salt, to taste
07 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 -
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
09 -
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
10 -
Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for topping
# Instructions:
01 -
Set oven to 190°C (375°F) and allow to fully preheat before assembling other components.
02 -
Slice Italian bread or baguette horizontally or into individual portions as preferred. Arrange slices cut side up on a parchment-lined or unlined baking tray.
03 -
In a bowl, combine olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning if using. Blend well.
04 -
Brush garlic herb mixture generously over each cut surface of the bread.
05 -
Layer tomato slices evenly over each piece of bread, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
06 -
Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella over tomato-covered bread. Optionally, add a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavour.
07 -
Transfer baking tray to preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling, and bread edges turn light golden brown.
08 -
Remove from oven and immediately garnish hot bread with freshly chopped basil leaves.
09 -
Portion and serve while warm as an appetizer, side, or snack.
# Notes:
01 -
For optimal crispness, serve immediately after baking. Bread can be prepared up to the cheese stage ahead of time and baked just before serving.