Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 6 large fresh garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup packed fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 loaf of Italian or French Bread (12-14 inches long)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened butter, pressed garlic, fresh parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until the mixture is uniform.
  3. Slice the loaf of bread lengthwise down the middle to create two long halves.
  4. Using a knife or spatula, evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut surface of both bread halves, ensuring good coverage to the edges.
  5. Place the bread halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the buttered surfaces now.
  6. Bake for 8 minutes until the butter is fully melted and bubbling slightly.
  7. Lower the oven rack slightly and switch the oven setting to Broil (High). Broil for 1–3 minutes, watching constantly until the tops are golden brown and toasted. Do not leave unattended.
  8. Remove from the oven. Immediately slice the bread crosswise into 1.5-inch wide serving portions. Serve hot.