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Olive Garlic Cheesy Bread

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Introduction

Olive Garlic Cheesy Bread is a bold, flavor-packed side that brings together crispy bread, fragrant garlic, briny olives, and melty cheese. Golden on the outside and gooey in the center, this bread is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or companion to pasta, soups, and salads. Every bite delivers rich Mediterranean-inspired comfort.

Origin

Cheesy garlic bread has roots in Italian-American cuisine, where crusty bread and garlic-infused oil are everyday staples. The addition of olives draws inspiration from Mediterranean flavors, elevating the classic garlic bread into something more robust and savory.

Cultural Significance

Garlic bread is a universal comfort food, often served at shared meals and family tables. Olive Garlic Cheesy Bread reflects modern fusion cooking—honoring traditional flavors while adding bold, briny elements that appeal to contemporary palates.

Ingredients & Quantity

Bread Base:

  • 1 loaf French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Topping:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup sliced green or black olives
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Optional Additions

  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Feta cheese for extra tang
  • Roasted garlic instead of raw

Tips for Success

  1. Use crusty bread for best texture.
  2. Mix butter and olive oil for rich flavor without heaviness.
  3. Spread evenly so every bite is garlicky.
  4. Bake uncovered for bubbly, golden cheese.
  5. Broil briefly for extra crispness.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare garlic spread:
    • Mix butter, olive oil, and minced garlic.
  4. Assemble bread:
    • Spread garlic mixture evenly on bread.
    • Sprinkle olives over top.
    • Add mozzarella and Parmesan.
    • Finish with oregano.
  6. Bake:
    • Place bread on baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Broil (optional):
    • Broil 1–2 minutes until golden.
  10. Serve:
    • Slice and serve warm.

Description

This Olive Garlic Cheesy Bread is crisp on the edges, soft in the middle, and loaded with melty cheese. The olives add a salty bite that perfectly balances the rich garlic butter and creamy mozzarella, creating an irresistible savory flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Sodium: Moderate–High

Conclusion

Olive Garlic Cheesy Bread is a simple yet bold dish that transforms everyday bread into something crave-worthy. It’s quick, satisfying, and always a hit at the table.

Recommendation

Serve alongside pasta, soups, or salads, or enjoy as a stand-alone appetizer with marinara or olive oil for dipping.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While cheesy and rich, this bread includes heart-healthy olive oil and flavorful olives, allowing you to enjoy bold taste with mindful portions. It’s a reminder that indulgence can still be balanced and joyful.

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