This Zesty Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a fun twist on your classic garlic bread! The mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of vinegar makes every bite full of flavor.
I can’t get enough of this delicious bread—it’s perfect as a side or a snack. Just slather it on, bake it up, and enjoy it with pasta or a good movie night! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A large baguette or Italian bread works wonderfully for this recipe. If you want a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free baguette or any gluten-free bread you enjoy.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro shine in chimichurri. If you’re not a cilantro fan, feel free to swap it for more parsley or add some fresh basil for a different flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/2 teaspoon if substituting.
Red Wine Vinegar: For those who prefer a milder option, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be great substitutes.
Cheese: While mozzarella or parmesan cheese adds a delightful touch, you can skip it for a dairy-free version or use a plant-based cheese if desired.
How Do I Create the Perfect Chimichurri Sauce?
The chimichurri sauce is key to the zesty flavor of this garlic bread. Start by finely chopping your herbs and garlic—they release more flavor when cut this way. Then, mix them in a bowl with olive oil, vinegar, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Adjust the red pepper to control spice levels; you can start with less and add more if needed.
- Combine herbs, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl, stirring until well mixed.
- Let the sauce sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Applying the chimichurri on the bread evenly helps every bite get that wonderful flavor. Bake until just crisp, but be careful not to overcook. Enjoy your bread warm for the best experience!
How to Make Zesty Chimichurri Garlic Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large baguette or Italian bread loaf
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect it to be ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick and flavorful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your bread will bake to perfection once you’re ready.
2. Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, cilantro, oregano, minced garlic, chili or red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix everything together; this will be your vibrant and zesty chimichurri sauce!
3. Prepare the Bread:
Take your baguette or Italian loaf and cut it in half lengthwise. Place the two halves on a baking sheet, cut-side up, ready for the delicious sauce!
4. Spread the Chimichurri:
Generously spread your chimichurri sauce over the cut sides of the bread, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor. If you love cheese, now’s the time to sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top!
5. Bake the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the bread to be toasted and the cheese melted and bubbly (if used).
6. Slice and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice it into pieces and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful and zesty chimichurri garlic bread as a side dish or a tasty snack!
Bon appétit! 🍞✨
FAQ for Zesty Chimichurri Garlic Bread
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh Herbs?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh, but keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use approximately one-third of the amount listed for fresh herbs. For example, replace 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Chimichurri Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your chimichurri. Some great additions can include chopped sun-dried tomatoes, onion, or even a splash of lime juice for an extra zing. Just be sure not to overwhelm the original flavor balance!
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Bread?
Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce and spread it on the bread 1-2 hours in advance. Just cover the bread tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven as directed!
