Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe

Indulge your senses with the irresistible aroma and flavors of Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread. This artisan-style loaf is a delightful fusion of aromatic herbs, savory garlic, and tangy Parmesan cheese, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Bringing together pantry staples and a handful of flavorful ingredients, this bread recipe is a testament to simplicity and sophistication.

As you craft this Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread, your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing scent of fresh herbs and garlic dancing in the air. The golden-brown crust, perfectly crisped edges, and tender interior speckled with herbs and cheese make this loaf a true culinary masterpiece. Whether paired with a hearty soup, a comforting pasta dish, or savored on its own, this bread elevates any meal to a gourmet experience. Embrace the art of bread-making with this recipe that promises to impress both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates Basic Ingredients: Simple pantry staples like flour and water are transformed into a flavorful, artisan-style loaf with the addition of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs.
• Versatile Pairing Options: This bread pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from pasta to soups, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
• Easy Artisan-Style Bread: Despite its rustic appearance, this bread is surprisingly easy to make, making artisan-style baking accessible even for novice bakers.
• Inviting Aroma and Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates a fragrant, flavorful bread that will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe Recipe

• The combination of garlic, parmesan, and herbs creates layers of flavor that elevate this bread beyond basic homemade loaves.
• The straightforward method makes artisan-style bread accessible even for novice bakers.
• The rustic appearance impresses guests despite requiring minimal shaping skills or special equipment.
• The aroma of this bread baking creates an irresistible anticipation that draws everyone to the kitchen.
• The first slice reveals a tender interior studded with herbs and parmesan, while the exterior offers a satisfying rustic crust with buttery, crisp edges.
• Freshly minced garlic provides significantly better flavor than pre-minced jarred varieties.
• The butter on top creates the characteristic rustic crust with natural cracks.
• Customizable herb selection allows for personalization, like using thyme for poultry dishes or herbs de Provence for a French twist.
• This bread pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, soups, or as a base for gourmet sandwiches, turning everyday meals into something special.
• Storage techniques help maintain freshness, whether wrapped in a kitchen towel for short-term storage or sliced and frozen for longer storage.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe

For the dough

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup warm water (100-110°F)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
• 2 to 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For baking

• 1 tablespoon butter (divided for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pro Tips for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe

To ensure a successful outcome when making Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread, remember that the dough’s consistency is key—aim for a soft and tacky texture that isn’t overly sticky. Overkneading can result in a tough, dense loaf, so knead the dough just until it becomes smooth and elastic. Additionally, consider customizing the herb selection to suit different dishes; thyme works well with poultry, while herbs de Provence can lend a French twist to the bread.

When baking the bread, use a digital thermometer to check for doneness—bread should reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F. For a crisper crust, try placing a shallow pan of hot water in the oven during the first 5 minutes of baking. Lastly, for storage, wrap the bread in a clean kitchen towel for short-term freshness or slice and freeze in a zip-top bag for longer-term preservation. Enjoy this flavorful bread as a standalone treat, with soups, pasta, or as a base for gourmet sandwiches.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine instant dry yeast, granulated sugar, and warm water in a large mixing bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for a minute to activate the yeast. Stir in salt, dried rosemary, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and grated parmesan cheese in a bowl. Stir until a rough dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring until the dough is smooth, elastic, soft, slightly tacky, and doesn’t stick to your fingers.

Step 3: Step 03

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat with oil. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 4: Step 04

Once the dough is almost done rising, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet, spreading it to coat.

Step 5: Step 05

After punching down the dough, divide it into two equal portions and shape each into a round loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet, allowing space for expansion. Cover loosely and let rise for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Step 06

Before baking, place a half-tablespoon of butter on top of each loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Step 07

Take the bread out of the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Let the loaves cool a bit before slicing. Enjoy the warm bread with butter, soup, or pasta.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread to perfection, it is important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. For short-term storage, you can wrap the loaf in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature. This method works well if you plan to consume the bread within a day or two. However, for longer storage, it is recommended to slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag. Slicing the bread before freezing allows you to easily take out individual portions as needed without compromising the texture or flavor of the entire loaf.

By following these storage techniques, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread even days after baking it. Whether you choose to serve it alongside soups, pasta dishes, or as a standalone treat, proper storage ensures that your homemade bread remains fresh and flavorful for an extended period. So, whether you savor it warm with herb-infused olive oil or as a gourmet sandwich base, knowing how to store this bread will help you make the most of this delightful artisan-style creation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread recipe, consider using active dry yeast instead of instant dry yeast. If using active dry yeast, you will need to proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before incorporating it into the dough. This can extend the rising time slightly but will still yield great results.

Additionally, if you prefer a milder garlic flavor or don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can substitute garlic powder. Keep in mind that garlic powder is more concentrated, so adjust the amount based on your taste preference. While fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor profile, garlic powder can still provide a delicious alternative.

When it comes to herbs, feel free to customize based on your preferences or what you have available. Experiment with different herb combinations like thyme, sage, or even a Mediterranean herb blend to create unique flavor profiles in your bread. Just remember that fresh herbs will have a milder flavor compared to dried herbs, so you may need to adjust the quantities accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread alongside a steaming bowl of tomato basil soup for a comforting and flavorful meal. The buttery, herb-infused bread is perfect for dunking into the soup, soaking up all the delicious flavors and textures in each bite.

For a more elegant presentation, slice the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread into thick slices, toast lightly, and top with a generous spread of creamy burrata cheese. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a sophisticated appetizer or light lunch option that will impress your guests with its simplicity and delicious taste.

FAQs for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: Easy Rustic Recipe

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant dry yeast in this recipe. However, you will need to proof the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in this bread?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs in place of dried herbs for a more intense flavor. Remember to triple the amount of herbs if using fresh ones and chop them finely before adding to the dough.

How can I store the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread to keep it fresh?

For short-term storage, wrap the bread in a clean kitchen towel. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze the slices in a zip-top bag. This will help maintain the freshness and texture of the bread.

What can I do to achieve a crisper crust on the bread?

To achieve a crisper crust on the bread, you can place a shallow pan of hot water in the oven during the first 5 minutes of baking. This steam created in the oven will help develop a crustier exterior on the bread.

Conclusion

As you embark on your Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread baking journey, remember that the heartwarming aroma and rustic charm of this bread are just a few simple steps away. The joy of creating a flavorful, artisan-style loaf from scratch is a truly rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the world of bread making, this recipe is sure to delight your senses and fill your home with delicious scents.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread unfold in your kitchen. With each slice, you’ll savor the harmonious blend of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs that make this bread a standout addition to any meal. Share it with loved ones, impress your guests, or simply treat yourself to a slice of warm, freshly baked goodness. Embrace the simplicity and charm of homemade bread, and let Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy baking!