This Parmesan herb bread is a flavorful and aromatic loaf that pairs well with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack. Infused with the rich taste of Parmesan cheese and a blend of fresh herbs, it’s perfect for any occasion.
The recipe is simple and requires basic baking skills. You can easily adjust the herbs to your liking or add extra cheese for an even richer flavor.
Overview of Parmesan Herb Bread
This Parmesan herb bread offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. The golden brown crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the soft, fluffy interior is infused with the savory essence of Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs.
Perfect for pairing with soups or salads, this bread can also stand alone as a tasty snack. Its versatility makes it a favorite for gatherings or a comforting treat at home.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for this bread are simple yet impactful. All-purpose flour serves as the base, while sugar and salt enhance the overall flavor profile. Active dry yeast is essential for achieving that perfect rise, creating a light and airy loaf.
What truly sets this bread apart is the addition of grated Parmesan cheese and a blend of dried Italian herbs. These ingredients infuse the dough with rich flavors, complemented by a hint of garlic powder and black pepper.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this bread is straightforward, even for novice bakers. The process begins with activating the yeast, which is crucial for ensuring the bread rises properly. Once the yeast is frothy, it’s combined with the dry ingredients to form a dough.
Kneading the dough is an important step that develops the gluten, giving the bread its structure. After kneading, the dough is left to rise until it doubles in size, which typically takes about an hour.
Shaping and Baking
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into a loaf. This is followed by a second rise, allowing the bread to become even fluffier. Preheating the oven is essential before baking, ensuring the bread cooks evenly.
Baking the loaf until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped is key to achieving that perfect crust. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top before baking can enhance the flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the bread cool slightly before slicing. A serrated knife is ideal for cutting through the crust without squishing the soft interior. This bread pairs wonderfully with a small bowl of olive oil for dipping, adding a touch of richness to each bite.
For a more complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty soup or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed on its own, making it a versatile addition to any dining experience.
Nutritional Benefits
This Parmesan herb bread not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides some nutritional benefits. Each slice contains approximately 150 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
With 5 grams of protein per slice, it offers a good source of energy, making it a suitable choice for various occasions. Enjoying this bread in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.
Easy Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe
This bread features a soft and fluffy interior with a crispy crust, enhanced by the savory notes of Parmesan and herbs. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 30 minutes, yielding one loaf.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, dried herbs, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top of the loaf if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
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