Garlic bread is a classic side dish that has been popular for many decades. Despite its simplicity, there are countless variations of garlic bread recipes, each with its unique flavor and texture.
However, the traditional recipe for garlic bread often includes a considerable amount of butter or margarine, which can be high in saturated fat and calories. In this article, we will explore some healthy alternatives to the classic garlic bread recipe without compromising on taste.
1. Whole Wheat Garlic Bread
One way to make your garlic bread healthier is by using whole wheat bread instead of white bread. Whole wheat flour contains more fiber than refined white flour and other nutrients like vitamins B6 and E.
To make whole wheat garlic bread, you will need:
– 1 loaf of whole-wheat French or Italian Bread
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix together olive oil with minced garlic in a small bowl.
3. Cut the loaf into slices but not all the way through.
4. Brush the mixture over each slice.
5. Wrap it up in foil and bake for about ten minutes until heated through.
This variant may have denser texture compared to white-bread-based versions but it’s worth trying as an alternative!
2. Vegan Garlic Bread
If you’re looking for vegan options, you can still enjoy delicious garlic bread without any dairy products involved! Here’s how to make vegan garlic bread:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz baguette or Italian style sliced loaf
– ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
– ⅓ cup nutritional yeast flakes
– 2 cloves finely chopped fresh garlic
– A pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1.Preheat oven at around $350^{\circ}$F
2.Mix together olive oil with nutritional yeast flakes in a small bowl.
3.Add garlic and sea salt. Mix well.
4.Brush the mixture over each slice of bread
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
The nutritional yeast flakes give a cheesy flavor to this vegan version while keeping it dairy-free!
3. Garlic Bread with Herbs
Adding herbs to your garlic bread can enhance the flavor without adding any extra calories. Here’s how you can make your own herb-infused garlic bread:
Ingredients:
– Loaf of French or Italian bread
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt & pepper, as per taste
– Olive oil (extra-virgin), as required
Instructions:
1.Preheat oven at around $375^{\circ}$F.
2.Slice the loaf of bread into thick slices but not all the way through.
3.In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil and oregano along with some salt and pepper to taste.
4.Brush the mixture over each slice of bread and wrap it up in foil.
5.Bake for about ten minutes until heated through.
This recipe is full of flavors from herbs which complement beautifully with garlic.
4. Garlic Knots
Garlic knots are a fun twist on traditional garlic bread recipes! These little bites are perfect for sharing as an appetizer or snack. Here’s how you can make these delicious delights:
Ingredients:
For dough,
– 2 cups flour
– A pinch of salt
– A pinch of sugar
– Warm water (approximately half cup)
For toppings,
– Olive oil (extra-virgin)
– Minced fresh garlic cloves (as desired)
– Dried parsley flakes, to sprinkle on top
Instructions:
1.Mix flour with sugar and salt in a mixing bowl then add warm water gradually until you get smooth dough.
2.Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
3.Divide this into about eight parts, roll them out, then tie each section into knots.
4.Brush the knots with olive oil infused with minced garlic cloves
5.Bake for around 15-20 minutes at $375^{\circ}$F or until golden brown.
6.Remove from oven and sprinkle dried parsley flakes on top.
Garlic knots are a perfect snack that you can serve warm to your guests!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to make garlic bread recipes healthier without compromising on taste. You can use whole wheat bread instead of white bread, try vegan options, add herbs to enhance flavor or even try making garlic knots! These variations will not only satisfy your cravings but also keep your diet healthy by cutting down on saturated fats and calories. So go ahead and experiment with these different recipes – they’re sure to become favorites in no time!
Leave a Reply