Caprese Garlic Bread
User Reviews
4.8
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
15 mins
-
Total Time
20 mins
-
Cuisine
American, International, Canadian, Vegetarian
Caprese Garlic Bread
Description
Caprese Garlic Bread features halved ciabatta bread spread with a garlic butter mixture and layered with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, then baked until the cheese melts and bubbles. Fresh tomato slices and chopped basil leaves are added after baking. A homemade balsamic reduction is drizzled on top to provide a sweet and slightly tangy finish. This recipe captures the essence of a Caprese salad reimagined as a warm, cheesy garlic bread.
The garlic butter infuses the bread with savory richness, while the fresh mozzarella melts into a creamy topping. The tomato slices contribute juiciness and fresh flavor, complemented by aromatic basil. The balsamic reduction intensifies the flavor profile, cutting through the cheese's richness with a balanced acidity and sweetness.
This bread can be served warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light snack. It pairs well with salads or soups for a simple meal. Cutting the bread into slices after assembly makes it easy to share and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 ciabatta bread horizontally cut in half, loaf
- 4 tablespoons butter salted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 12 oz. mozzarella cheese sliced, fresh
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tomato sliced, medium
- salt to taste, freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
- 1/3 cup basil chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place both sides of the baguette on a large baking sheet with the cut side up.
- In a small bowl, combine butter and garlic and spread evenly on bread halves. Place the mozzarella cheese slices on top of the bread, making sure the cheese covers the bread completely. Bake the bread for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- While the bread is in the oven, make the balsamic reduction. Place the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring the vinegar to a boil, decrease the heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is reduced by about half. This should only take about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Remove the bread from oven. Top the bread with tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add the fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Cut into slices and serve.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
You'll Also Love
