Wedge Of Garlic Toast Recipe

Soften and combine butter

Let the unsalted butter sit at room temperature until soft (about 20–30 minutes). If short on time, cut into small cubes to speed softening. Place softened butter in a medium mixing bowl.

Cook garlic gently

Warm the extra-virgin olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook gently for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not brown (browning makes garlic bitter). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix flavors

Add the cooled garlic and olive oil to the softened butter. Stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly until homogenous. Taste and adjust salt or lemon zest as needed. Transfer the garlic butter to a small bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes if it became too soft — it should be spreadable but not runny.

Prepare the loaf

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with an oven rack in the center. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the loaf into 6–8 wedges: first halve the loaf crosswise, then cut each half into 3–4 equal wedges depending on loaf size. Alternatively, slice loaf into 1-inch thick wedges or long slices for individual toasts. Place wedges cut-side-up on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the top surface lightly with olive oil to encourage browning.

Spread garlic butter

Using a spatula or butter knife, spread a generous layer (about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons) of the prepared garlic butter over the top of each wedge so the butter reaches the edges. If using grated cheese, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of Parmesan evenly over each wedge now.

Bake to golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 8–12 minutes until the edges are crisp and the tops are golden and bubbling. For extra color, switch oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Finish and serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. If using, sprinkle sea salt flakes and chopped chives or additional parsley over the hot wedges. Let the toasts rest 1–2 minutes, then serve warm as an appetizer or a side. Leftovers can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

Before serving, add a light dusting of extra grated cheese if desired and a final drizzle of olive oil for shine. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.