The World's Best Garlic Bread

Buttery Garlic Bread. Who in their right mind isn't hypnotically drawn to the intoxicating aroma of fresh-baked French bread doused in buttery garlic? If you are one of those crazy people who happens to enjoy self-deprivation, (read: a low-carb diet) then this recipe is definitely not for you. But beware! Try it once and your carb meter will blow a fuse and wind up at the bottom of your junk drawer. For life. Oh, and then serve the stuff with a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs... Dr. Atkins may roll over in his grave.

 

DELUXE PARMESAN GARLIC BREAD

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
• Garlic butter (recipe follows)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (1 tbsp dried)

For the Garlic Butter

•  6-8 large cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (low fat if you like, but at this point, why bother?)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, plus a little extra for sprinkling
• 1/2 Tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 Tbsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400° F.
2. With sharp knife or in food processor, finely mince the garlic. Transfer to a small mixing bowl.
3. To garlic in bowl, add the softened butter and mayonnaise. Stir to combine. Add remaining seasonings and Parmesan cheese. Blend well. Spread mixture liberally over halved tops of the French bread. 
4. Bake in oven until butter mixture has melted and bread is golden brown, about 15 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with the fresh chopped basil and a little extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Cut into serving-size slices and serve warm.

FYI LINKS

The Health Benefits of Garlic