If you're looking to elevate your bread game, this Rustic Garlic Loaf is just the ticket. With a perfect blend of butter, garlic, and Parmesan, it's a savory delight that's sure to impress. Whether you're serving it as a side or a snack, it's bound to be a hit.
The star of our show is the French bread, which offers a great base with its crusty exterior and soft interior. The unsalted butter is essential for controlling the saltiness, allowing the other flavors to shine through. Garlic, minced finely, provides a robust flavor that complements the bread beautifully. A touch of salt enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, while the Parmesan cheese brings a savory, umami depth to the loaf.
This Rustic Garlic Loaf pairs wonderfully with a hearty pasta dish or a warm bowl of soup. It's also a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, offering a flavorful contrast to meats and cheeses. For a light meal, serve it alongside a fresh, crisp salad.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures itโs ready to go once youโve prepped everything. Take your loaf of French bread and slice it in half horizontally. Lay the halves cut side up on a baking sheet โ this makes for easier spreading and even baking.
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and salt. Mix them together until everything is well incorporated. You want a smooth, even consistency so that every bite of bread gets that delicious garlic butter flavor.
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread. Donโt be shy with it โ this is where all the flavor comes from! Once thatโs done, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, herby touch. Lastly, add a good layer of grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt beautifully and add a golden-brown finish.
Pop the bread into your preheated oven. Bake it for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it โ youโre looking for the edges to turn a lovely golden brown and the cheese to be nicely melted. Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes slicing easier and prevents any eager eaters from burning their fingers!