Caprese Garlic Bread
This caprese garlic bread turns classic garlic bread into a warm tomato, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic appetizer. Ciabatta is spread with garlic butter, baked with fresh mozzarella, then topped with tomatoes, basil, black pepper, and Florida Pure Garlic Infused Sea Salt. The garlic salt reinforces the savory bread base while giving the fresh tomatoes and cheese a nice finish. Serve it as an appetizer, summer side, party snack, or an easy dinner with salad, grilled chicken, pasta, or seafood.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 loaf ciabatta bread, horizontally cut in half
- 4 tbspns salted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Florida Pure Garlic Infused Sea Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
Why Garlic Infused Sea Salt Works in This Caprese Garlic Bread
Garlic Infused Sea Salt works in caprese garlic bread because it supports both halves of the recipe: the buttery garlic bread and the fresh tomato-mozzarella topping. The salt sharpens the tomatoes, balances the creamy mozzarella, and deepens the garlic flavor without needing extra raw garlic at the end. Add it after baking so the fresh caprese topping keeps a clean, savory finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place both sides of the baguette on a large baking sheet with the cut side up.
2. In a small bowl, combine butter and garlic and spread evenly on bread halves. Place the mozzarella cheese slices on top of the bread, making sure the cheese covers the bread completely. Bake the bread for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
3. While the bread is in the oven, make the balsamic reduction. Place the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring the vinegar to a boil, decrease the heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is reduced by about half. This should only take about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
4. Remove the bread from oven. Top the bread with tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add the fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Cut into slices and serve.
5. Enjoy!
FAQ:
Q: Can I make caprese garlic bread ahead?
A: Prep the bread and toppings ahead, but bake and assemble close to serving so the bread stays crisp.
Q: What bread is best for caprese garlic bread?
A: Ciabatta works well because it has enough structure for melted cheese, tomatoes, and balsamic.