Garlic breadsticks

Garlic Breadsticks - a quick and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-22 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings

Who can resist the enticing aroma of garlic breadsticks? This simple and quick appetizer is perfect to accompany a meal or simply to be enjoyed alongside a glass of wine. I will show you how to prepare delicious garlic breadsticks that will turn any gathering into a memorable moment. Here are the detailed steps to achieve a perfect result.

Ingredients:
- 1 fresh baguette (approximately 250g)
- 100g butter (at room temperature)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (preferably fresh garlic)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (optional)
- 50g grated parmesan cheese (optional, for an intense flavor)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Fresh garlic is ideal for an intense flavor, so avoid using garlic powder. Chop the fresh parsley into small pieces to release its aroma. If you opt for parmesan cheese, prepare it in advance as it will add an umami note to your breadsticks.

Step 2: Preparing the butter mixture
In a bowl, combine the soft butter with the crushed garlic (use a garlic press or fine grater to achieve a smooth paste) and the chopped parsley. Add the salt and pepper (if using) and mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. If you desire a richer version, you can add the grated parmesan cheese at this stage.

Step 3: Preparing the baguette
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Use a sharp knife to cut the baguette into slices about 3/4 thick, leaving the base intact so that the slices remain connected. This will allow the flavored butter to penetrate each slice.

Step 4: Filling the baguette
Use a spatula or spoon to fill each cut of the baguette with the garlic butter mixture. Ensure even distribution so that each bite is full of flavor. If you have leftover mixture, you can spread it on top of the baguette for added taste.

Step 5: Baking the breadsticks
Place the filled baguette on a baking tray. If desired, you can cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture, but you can bake the baguette uncovered for a crispy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the butter is completely melted and the baguette is golden.

Step 6: Serving
Once the breadsticks are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. It might be a good idea to cut them into smaller portions for easier serving. You can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for an attractive appearance.

Suggestion: Serve the breadsticks with a fresh tomato sauce or a yogurt dip for a complete culinary experience. These garlic breadsticks pair perfectly with salads or as an appetizer at parties.

Possible variations: Instead of parsley, you can use fresh basil for an Italian version or add spices like chili flakes for a spicy flavor. Adding mozzarella cheese between slices before baking will make the breadsticks even more delicious.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Enjoy the delicious aroma of garlic breadsticks and let your loved ones indulge in this simple and tasty appetizer.