Garlic Confit Toast is an elevated take on the classic garlic bread, with a rich, nutty-sweet flavor from the garlic confit, creamy butter, and the sharpness of parmesan. The bread becomes crispy on the outside while remaining soft and flavorful on the inside. This dish is perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or as a standalone appetizer.
The contrast between the rich garlic confit butter and the crispy, golden French bread creates a memorable bite every time. Whether served as a side to your favorite soup or enjoyed on its own, this toast will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, the garlic-infused olive oil that’s leftover can be repurposed for other dishes like roasted veggies, pasta, or even as a salad dressing—truly a versatile and delicious recipe.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup extra virgin olive oil
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1 cup garlic cloves, peeled and roots removed
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
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½ cup freshly grated parmesan
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2 teaspoons flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
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1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch diagonal slices
Directions:
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Add olive oil and garlic cloves to a small saucepan. Make sure garlic cloves are submerged and add more oil, if necessary. Bring to a simmer, then lower to medium-low heat. Cloves should be surrounded by tiny bubbles, not frying in oil.
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Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until cloves turn a light golden color. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
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Preheat oven to 400°F. When garlic is cool to touch, use a slotted spoon and scoop out cloves, straining oil back into the saucepan. Place garlic in a bowl and add butter, parmesan, parsley, and kosher salt. Mix well until ingredients are well incorporated.
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Lather garlic confit butter on each French bread slice and place on a prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 7 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 125 kcal (per slice) | Servings: 12 slices
What Is Garlic Confit?
To understand the magic of Garlic Confit Toast, it’s essential to first grasp the concept of garlic confit. The term “confit” comes from French cuisine, where it refers to food that has been slow-cooked in fat, usually at low temperatures. Traditionally, confit is used for meats, but the process can be applied to vegetables as well. When garlic is cooked in oil over low heat, its harsh raw flavor softens and develops a mellow, nutty sweetness. The slow cooking process also creates a garlic-infused oil that can be used for various other dishes, making it incredibly versatile.
The result of this method is soft, creamy cloves of garlic that are tender and flavorful, without the sharpness that raw garlic can sometimes bring. The garlic confit is then combined with butter, herbs, and parmesan before being spread over French bread, creating a rich, savory topping that perfectly complements the crispy, toasted bread.
The Preparation Process: Simple Yet Flavorful
While Garlic Confit Toast may sound like a gourmet dish, it is surprisingly simple to prepare. The most time-consuming part of the process is making the garlic confit, but the actual assembly of the toast is quick and easy. The garlic is gently simmered in olive oil, allowing it to soften and become infused with all the aromatic flavors of the oil. Once the garlic is done, it’s mashed into a buttery mixture that is spread generously on each slice of French bread.
This toasted bread is then baked in the oven for just a few minutes until golden brown and crispy. The result is a slice of bread that is crisp on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, with the subtle sweetness of garlic that adds depth to each bite.
Why Garlic Confit Toast Is Better Than Traditional Garlic Bread
Garlic Confit Toast stands out from traditional garlic bread in several key ways. While garlic bread is typically made with raw garlic that is mixed with butter and herbs, Garlic Confit Toast uses garlic confit, which results in a smoother, richer flavor. The confit process removes the harsh bite of raw garlic, replacing it with a mellow sweetness that adds complexity to the dish.
Additionally, the garlic confit butter used in Garlic Confit Toast is infused with fresh herbs like parsley and grated parmesan, further enhancing the flavor profile. The inclusion of parmesan adds a savory, umami-rich element that complements the natural sweetness of the garlic, while the fresh parsley brings a pop of color and brightness. This makes Garlic Confit Toast a more sophisticated version of garlic bread, with layers of flavor that will appeal to even the most discerning palates.
Versatility of Garlic Confit Toast
One of the best things about Garlic Confit Toast is its versatility. While it’s delicious on its own, it can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a satisfying meal. For example, it’s the perfect side dish to accompany creamy soups, like tomato bisque or roasted garlic and butternut squash soup. The rich, buttery toast provides a perfect contrast to the smooth, velvety texture of the soup, and the garlic flavor complements the savory notes of the broth.
Garlic Confit Toast also pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes. The garlicky richness of the toast enhances the flavors of pasta, especially those with creamy sauces like Alfredo or carbonara. It can also be served alongside grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, for a well-rounded meal. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for nearly any cuisine, from Italian to French to American.
Leftover Garlic Confit Oil: A Bonus!
Another perk of making garlic confit is the leftover garlic-infused oil. After cooking the garlic, the oil is packed with the flavors of the garlic and herbs, making it a precious ingredient for other dishes. The garlic-infused oil can be used in salad dressings, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or used as a cooking oil for sautéing meats and seafood.
This oil can also be stored in a sterilized jar and refrigerated for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy its flavor for several meals. The oil becomes a versatile kitchen staple, adding depth and richness to almost any dish that could use a hint of garlic and olive oil.
Perfect Pairings with Garlic Confit Toast
The rich, buttery flavors of Garlic Confit Toast make it an excellent pairing for a wide variety of dishes. Here are some of the best pairings to consider:
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Soups – Garlic Confit Toast is a great accompaniment to any type of soup. Its crispy texture and garlic flavor pair beautifully with the creaminess of soups like tomato bisque, roasted garlic and butternut squash soup, or creamy spinach tortellini soup. The toast soaks up the soup, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor.
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Salads – A simple salad of mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette can be elevated with a side of Garlic Confit Toast. The bread adds substance to the salad, making it feel like a more complete meal.
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Pasta – Garlic Confit Toast can be served with almost any pasta dish. Its rich, savory flavor complements pasta with creamy sauces, like Alfredo or carbonara, or even tomato-based sauces. It also pairs well with lighter pasta dishes, like spaghetti aglio e olio.
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Grilled Meats – Whether you’re grilling steak, chicken, or fish, Garlic Confit Toast is the perfect side dish. The garlic butter on the toast enhances the savory flavors of the meat, while the bread’s crispy texture offers a delightful contrast to the tender protein.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dish for Garlic Lovers
Garlic Confit Toast is a simple yet decadent dish that will elevate any meal. With its rich, buttery topping and the unique flavor of garlic confit, it offers a sophisticated twist on traditional garlic bread. The versatility of the dish makes it a great addition to any meal, from soups and salads to pasta and grilled meats. Plus, the leftover garlic-infused oil can be repurposed for even more delicious dishes.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Garlic Confit Toast is sure to impress your guests or provide comfort in your own home. It’s a dish that combines the best of garlic, butter, and cheese, creating a treat that’s hard to resist. So, if you’re a garlic lover, this is a recipe you won’t want to miss!