Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Tomato Basil Garlic Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil with the warm, comforting taste of garlic bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack, a side dish for pasta, or a delightful appetizer at a gathering. The combination of melted mozzarella and fresh ingredients makes every bite tasty.

How to Make Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

Ingredients:

1 baguette or Italian loaf, sliced
2 tbsp butter, softened
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil for drizzling

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and minced garlic together. Spread this mixture onto each slice of bread.
Top the bread with shredded mozzarella cheese and slices of tomato. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs over the top.
Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread should be golden brown.
Remove from the oven and add fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with a little olive oil and serve warm.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

You can serve Tomato Basil Garlic Bread as a side dish with pasta, salads, or soups. It also makes a great appetizer for gatherings and pairs well with a variety of dips. Cut the bread into smaller slices for easy sharing, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with family and friends.

How to Store Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

If you have any leftover Tomato Basil Garlic Bread, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat it in the oven or toaster until it’s warm and the cheese is melty again. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Tips to Make Tomato Basil Garlic Bread

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping before baking for a little spice.
Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamier texture.
Experiment with different herbs, like oregano or thyme, to change up the flavor.

Variation

You can add other toppings to the bread, such as sliced olives, bell peppers, or even pepperoni for a heartier version. Feel free to get creative based on what you like!

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat bread instead of a baguette?
Yes, whole wheat bread will work well! Just make sure it’s sliced so it can hold the toppings.

2. Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil tastes best, you can use dried basil if fresh is not available. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and assemble the bread ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!