Description
This tomato basil garlic bread transforms ordinary bread into an extraordinary Italian side dish. Fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich garlic butter create the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
1 large ciabatta or French bread loaf
4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Extra basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice bread into 1-inch thick pieces without cutting through bottom crust.
3. Combine softened butter, minced garlic, olive oil, and oregano in bowl.
4. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss diced tomatoes with balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Let tomato mixture sit for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
7. Spread garlic butter mixture between bread slices and over top.
8. Spoon tomato mixture into cuts and over top surface.
9. Sprinkle with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes.
10. Wrap loosely in foil and bake 10 minutes.
11. Unwrap and bake 5 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.
12. Garnish with extra fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use day-old bread for better absorption without falling apart.
Salt tomatoes and drain to prevent soggy texture.
Fresh basil is essential for authentic Italian flavor.
Serve immediately for best texture and temperature.
Can be assembled ahead and baked when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: tomato basil garlic bread, italian bread, garlic bread recipe, herb bread