Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

📖 Description:

Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a flavorful, aromatic twist on the classic garlic bread. It features a crispy golden crust topped with a layer of roasted garlic butter, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil, making it perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light snack. The fusion of tangy tomato and fragrant basil pairs beautifully with the richness of butter and cheese.

📝 Ingredients for Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

• 1 loaf French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 Roma tomatoes, diced)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

3. Mix the garlic oil with softened butter and spread evenly over the bread halves.

4. Distribute tomatoes over the top, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and mozzarella (if using).

5. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden and cheese is melted.

6. Turn on broiler for 1–2 minutes to lightly crisp the top (watch closely to prevent burning).

7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil and Parmesan if using.

8. Slice and serve warm.

📌 Notes:

• Use heirloom or grape tomatoes for a sweeter taste.

• For extra richness, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

• Can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

💡 Tips:

• Toast the bread lightly before adding toppings for a crispier base.

• Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Pairs well with pasta, soups, or grilled meats.

🍽️ Servings:

Serves 6–8 as a side or appetizer

⚖️ Nutritional Info (per slice, estimated with cheese):

• Calories: ~190

• Fat: 11g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 270mg

Values may vary depending on bread and cheese used.

🌟 Benefits:

• Fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil provide antioxidants and vitamins (A, C, K).

• Garlic offers anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.

• Easy to prepare and customizable to your dietary preferences.

• Great for entertaining or upgrading weeknight meals.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the bread up to step 4 and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but use less (about 1 tsp), and add it before baking for best flavor.

Q: What bread works best?
A: A crusty loaf like French, ciabatta, or sourdough works best to hold the toppings without getting soggy.

Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it unbaked, wrapped tightly. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.