Chimichurri Garlic Bread

Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a flavorful twist on the classic garlic bread, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their bread game. Infused with the vibrant flavors of chimichurri, a tangy Argentine sauce made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, this bread is a mouthwatering combination of rich, garlicky goodness and fresh herbal notes. The crispy edges and soft, flavorful interior make this bread a perfect side dish for a variety of meals, from pasta to grilled meats or even enjoyed on its own. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual gathering, Chimichurri Garlic Bread is sure to be a hit.

This recipe takes only 20-22 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a quick and easy option when you’re craving something more than traditional garlic bread. The fresh parsley, garlic, and red wine vinegar blend together to create a zesty, aromatic topping that pairs beautifully with the golden brown, crusty bread. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn an ordinary loaf of French bread into an extraordinary dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a delicious departure from the typical garlic bread. The chimichurri sauce brings a fresh, zesty flavor to the bread, while the garlic adds that classic savory touch. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal, whether you’re serving it with grilled steak, pasta, or a hearty salad. The balance of flavors from the parsley, garlic, and vinegar will make every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can have it ready in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

  • French bread
  • Fresh parsley
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper

Variations

  • Add Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the chimichurri sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the chimichurri sauce before baking for a cheesy, savory touch.
  • Herb Variations: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano to the chimichurri sauce for additional layers of flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Option: For a richer version, mix softened butter with the chimichurri sauce and spread it on the bread before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-mixed and fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

Slice the French bread in half horizontally, creating two long halves. This will allow the chimichurri sauce to coat the bread evenly.

Step 4: Apply the Chimichurri Sauce

Spread the chimichurri mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to cover them evenly with the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice the bread into individual pieces and serve while still warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Fresh Parsley: Use fresh parsley for the best flavor. Dried parsley won’t give you the same vibrant, fresh taste.
  • Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on the bread while it’s in the oven to avoid over-baking and drying it out. The goal is golden brown edges, not burnt ones.
  • Garlic: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can sauté the garlic in a little bit of olive oil before adding it to the chimichurri sauce.

How to Serve

Chimichurri Garlic Bread is versatile and can be served as an accompaniment to a wide range of dishes. It pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meats, or a simple salad. You can also enjoy it as an appetizer on its own or with a dip. For extra flair, serve it alongside a creamy tomato soup or a rich, meaty stew.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chimichurri Garlic Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it crispy, you can wrap it in foil before storing.

Freezing

To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat the bread in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat leftover bread in the oven or toaster oven to restore its crispy texture. You can also microwave it for a few seconds, but it may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, such as sourdough or baguette, though French bread provides the best texture and flavor for this recipe.

2. Can I make the chimichurri sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chimichurri sauce a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator, and bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the bread.

3. Can I make this recipe without red wine vinegar?

If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.

4. Can I make chimichurri garlic bread without garlic?

While garlic adds a great depth of flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste. You could add other herbs like oregano for flavor instead.

5. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Fresh parsley provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you must use dried parsley, reduce the amount to about 2 tablespoons, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

6. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, bake the bread right after applying the chimichurri sauce. Don’t let the bread sit too long with the sauce before baking.

7. Can I grill the bread instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the bread is a great option! Brush the chimichurri sauce on the bread and grill it on medium heat until golden brown and crispy.

8. Can I add cheese to the bread?

Yes, you can sprinkle some cheese on top of the bread before baking, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a cheesy version of this dish.

9. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped chili peppers to the chimichurri sauce to give it a spicy kick.

10. Can I use this chimichurri sauce for other dishes?

Yes, chimichurri sauce is versatile! You can use it as a marinade for meats, a sauce for grilled vegetables, or even drizzle it over roasted potatoes.

Conclusion

Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a simple yet flavorful twist on the classic garlic bread that will elevate any meal. With the fresh and zesty flavors of chimichurri, the bread becomes a deliciously savory and aromatic side dish. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, grilled meats, or just as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a must-try for anyone looking to add a new favorite recipe to their baking repertoire.

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Chimichurri Garlic Bread


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Chimichurri Garlic Bread combines the rich, herby flavors of traditional chimichurri with the irresistible goodness of garlic bread. With fresh parsley, garlic, and olive oil, it’s the perfect side dish to accompany any meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf French bread
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a small bowl, mix together the parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  • Slice the French bread in half horizontally.
  • Spread the chimichurri mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
  • Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add red pepper flakes to the chimichurri mixture for a bit of heat.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the bread in foil while baking to keep it moist, and then uncover it for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp the edges.
  • This bread pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or salads.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

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