Description
Cheesy Chimichurri Garlic Bread is a vibrant twist on classic garlic bread featuring a fresh, herbaceous chimichurri sauce loaded with parsley, cilantro, and red chili, topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Broiled to golden perfection, it makes a perfect appetizer or side dish bursting with bold flavors and gooey cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 to 2 red chilis, seeds and stems removed, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red vinegar, or lemon and lime juice
Bread Topping
- 1 (16-ounce) French bread loaf
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to broil and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Prepare the Chimichurri: In a small bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, cilantro, red chili, dried oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red vinegar or citrus juice. Stir thoroughly. For optimal flavor, let it rest for at least 30 minutes, though it can be used right away if needed.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the 16-ounce French bread loaf lengthwise into two halves. Place each half cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Optionally, trim the ends for more uniform pieces.
- Assemble the Garlic Bread: Stir the chimichurri sauce to redistribute oil, then spread a thin, even layer on each bread half, careful not to oversaturate. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the herb layer, then generously top with shredded mozzarella cheese according to your taste.
- Broil: Place the baking sheet on the oven’s middle rack. Broil the bread for 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The bread is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the cheesy chimichurri garlic bread from the oven, slice it into triangles or rectangles, and serve warm for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Allowing the chimichurri to rest enhances the depth of flavor but is optional if you’re short on time.
- Adjust the number of red chilis to control the heat level of the chimichurri.
- Use fresh minced garlic for the best, vibrant flavor in the chimichurri.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent cheese from burning since broilers can vary in intensity.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor; leftovers can be reheated but may lose some crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Argentinian-inspired
