π§π Angela’s Garlic Bread π§π
Angela’s Garlic Bread is a delightful and savory treat loved by many for its rich, buttery, and garlic-infused flavor. It’s a simple yet scrumptious side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or as an appetizer. Here’s everything you need to know about Angela’s Garlic Bread:
π History:
The history of garlic bread is not precisely documented, but it is believed to have Italian origins. Garlic bread as we know it today likely emerged in the United States, where Italian immigrants popularized it as a staple in Italian-American cuisine. It quickly gained popularity due to its delicious taste and ease of preparation.
π§ Components:
Angela’s Garlic Bread typically consists of the following components:
- French Baguette: A long, narrow loaf of bread, often used as the base for garlic bread.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are crushed or minced to infuse their pungent flavor into the bread.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is usually used for its creamy richness.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is added for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the bread.
π©βπ³ Preparation:
Here are the steps to prepare Angela’s Garlic Bread:
Ingredients:
- 1 French Baguette
- 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
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Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
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Slice the French baguette in half lengthwise, creating two long pieces.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic and softened butter. Mix until the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.
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Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on the cut sides of the baguette.
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Sprinkle the chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper evenly over the buttered bread.
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Place the two halves of the baguette back together and wrap them in aluminum foil.
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Bake the wrapped garlic bread in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is crispy on the outside and the buttery mixture has melted and infused the bread with garlic goodness.
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Unwrap the bread, slice it into individual servings, and serve immediately while it’s warm and aromatic.
β±οΈ Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Angela’s Garlic Bread is approximately 25-30 minutes, including preparation and baking time. It’s a quick and easy side dish that can elevate any meal with its irresistible flavors.
Enjoy your homemade Angela’s Garlic Bread! ππ§π
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angela’s Garlic Bread:
π Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the size of the serving and the specific ingredients used.
- Total Fat: Approximately 12-15 grams, primarily from butter and cheese.
- Saturated Fat: Around 7-9 grams, mainly from butter.
- Trans Fat: Minimal to none if using real butter.
- Cholesterol: About 25-30 milligrams.
- Sodium: Roughly 350-450 milligrams, with variations based on salt content in ingredients.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams.
- Dietary Fiber: Minimal, typically less than 1 gram.
- Sugars: Very low, typically less than 1 gram.
- Protein: Around 3-5 grams.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic contributes to small amounts of vitamins C and B6, as well as trace minerals like manganese.
π Health Information:
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Moderation: While Angela’s Garlic Bread can be delicious, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its relatively high fat and calorie content. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
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Garlic Benefits: Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including its antimicrobial properties and potential positive effects on heart health. However, the garlic in garlic bread is often cooked, which can reduce some of its health benefits compared to consuming it raw.
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Butter and Cheese: The butter and cheese used in garlic bread can contribute to its richness but also to its saturated fat content. Excessive saturated fat intake should be avoided to maintain heart health.
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Portion Size: Be mindful of portion sizes. It’s easy to consume larger portions of garlic bread, which can significantly increase your calorie and fat intake. Consider sharing it with others or cutting smaller servings.
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Pairing: Garlic bread is often served with pasta dishes, which can make a meal quite heavy in carbohydrates. Balance your meal by incorporating vegetables and lean protein sources.
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Homemade vs. Store-bought: Homemade garlic bread allows you to control the ingredients, making it potentially healthier compared to some store-bought versions that may contain additives and preservatives.
Remember that individual nutrition values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portions used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.