Randy Chandler
Garlic bread is a popular appetizer and side dish, often served with pasta. It is made by spreading garlic butter on bread and baking it until it is warm and crunchy. Cheese is often added to garlic bread, making it even more indulgent. But is garlic bread with cheese healthy? On the positive side, garlic has many nutritional benefits. It contains antioxidants that support heart health and may help combat cancer. It also has antimicrobial properties, which may boost immunity. However, when garlic is mixed with bread, the health benefits are diminished. Bread is usually made from refined grains, which have a high glycemic index and can cause blood sugar spikes. Adding cheese further increases the fat and calorie content of the dish.
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What You'll Learn
- Garlic bread nutritional value: Garlic has antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, but bread is often made from refined grains
- Calories: A medium slice of garlic bread with cheese contains 415 calories
- Ingredients: Garlic bread with cheese is made with butter, garlic, herbs, and cheese
- Variations: Garlic bread can be made with vegan butter and vegan cheese
- Storage: Garlic bread with cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days
Garlic bread nutritional value: Garlic has antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, but bread is often made from refined grains
Garlic has long been recognised for its nutritional benefits, including its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, when it comes to garlic bread, the nutritional value becomes a bit more complex.
On the one hand, garlic itself is a healthy ingredient. It contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals, and it also has antimicrobial properties, which can assist in fighting off bacteria and other microbes.
On the other hand, garlic bread is typically made with bread that is high in refined carbohydrates. Refined grains, such as white flour, have been stripped of their bran and germ during processing, resulting in a loss of fibre and other essential nutrients. This can cause a more rapid spike in blood sugar levels compared to whole grain or sprouted bread options.
Additionally, garlic bread is often made with butter, cheese, and other fats, which can contribute to its high-calorie content. For example, a single slice of Conte's garlic bread contains 200 calories, with 53% of those calories coming from carbohydrates and 38% from fat. While garlic bread can offer some nutritional benefits from the garlic itself, it's important to be mindful of the other ingredients and their potential impact on health.
When it comes to preparing garlic bread at home, there are ways to make it healthier. For instance, using whole grain or sprouted bread as a base can boost the fibre and nutrient content. Substituting butter with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil, can also reduce the saturated fat content. Additionally, baking the garlic bread instead of frying it can cut down on excess oil or butter, making it a slightly lighter option.
In conclusion, while garlic bread may not be the healthiest option due to its refined grain content and high fat and calorie levels, it can be made more nutritious by using whole grain bread, healthier fats, and baking instead of frying. However, as with all foods, moderation is key, and enjoying garlic bread in smaller portions or as an occasional treat can be part of a balanced diet.
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Calories: A medium slice of garlic bread with cheese contains 415 calories
Garlic bread is a tasty treat and a fan favorite. The addition of cheese makes it even more irresistible. But is it healthy?
A medium slice of garlic bread with cheese contains 415 calories. It also has 38g of total carbs, 36g of net carbs, 25.2g of fat, and 10.4g of protein. While garlic has nutritional benefits, the bread it's mixed with is usually made from refined grains, which have a high glycemic index. This can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
The calorie count of garlic bread with cheese is high, and when combined with the potential for a blood sugar spike, it's clear that this food should be enjoyed in moderation. However, it's important to note that the specific ingredients used and the cooking method can impact the nutritional value, so there may be ways to make this dish healthier. For example, using vegan butter and cheese can reduce the calorie count and make the dish suitable for those on a plant-based diet. Additionally, wrapping the bread in aluminum foil before baking can result in softer garlic bread, which may be preferable for those watching their calorie intake.
When it comes to the cheese, a blend of mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano is a popular choice, but other options can be used to suit personal preferences or dietary needs. Freshly grated or shredded cheese is recommended to ensure it melts evenly and doesn't burn during baking. Adding the cheese towards the end of the baking process helps ensure it doesn't become overly crispy or burnt.
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Ingredients: Garlic bread with cheese is made with butter, garlic, herbs, and cheese
Garlic bread with cheese is a delicious treat, but how healthy is it? Well, it depends on the ingredients you use. The key components are butter, garlic, herbs, and cheese, and the quality of these ingredients can make a big difference in terms of healthiness.
Let's start with butter. Butter is a source of fat, and while fat is an essential part of a balanced diet, it's important to consume it in moderation. When making garlic bread, softened butter is typically used, and you can opt for either salted or unsalted varieties. Using a high-quality butter, such as Cabot or Land O' Lakes, can enhance the flavour and texture of your garlic bread.
Next up is garlic, the star ingredient that gives this dish its signature flavour. Fresh garlic is always best, and you can mince it yourself to ensure maximum flavour and avoid any potential discolouration during baking. Frozen or jarred garlic can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic truly elevates the taste.
Herbs add a wonderful depth of flavour to garlic bread. Common choices include parsley, chives, basil, and rosemary. Fresh herbs are preferred, but dried herbs can also be used if that's what you have on hand. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of herbs to find your perfect blend.
Finally, we get to the cheese. The type of cheese you choose can significantly impact the healthiness of your garlic bread. Classic options include mozzarella, Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano), and Colby Jack. Shredding or grating your own cheese from a block can result in better texture and flavour. You can also get creative and use other cheeses like provolone, muenster, Monterey Jack, Romano, or Asiago.
In summary, garlic bread with cheese can be a decadent treat, but it's not typically considered a health food. However, by using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and garlic, and moderating your consumption, you can enjoy this indulgent dish as part of a balanced diet.
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Variations: Garlic bread can be made with vegan butter and vegan cheese
Garlic bread is a popular side dish, often served with pasta, soup, or a crowd-pleasing meal. While traditional garlic bread is made with butter, garlic, and herbs, it can be made vegan by substituting vegan butter and vegan cheese. This makes it a delicious option for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant.
Vegan garlic bread is easy to make and can be prepared in just a few simple steps. First, melt the desired amount of vegan butter in a small bowl, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Then, mix in crushed or grated garlic cloves, along with any desired herbs and spices such as fresh parsley, oregano, or sea salt. This creates a flavourful garlic butter spread.
Next, slice a baguette or ciabatta loaf into 1-2 cm thick pieces, being careful not to cut all the way through the bread. Spread the garlic butter generously on both sides of each slice or stuff the slices with vegan cheese. For an even cheesier option, sprinkle vegan parmesan or mozzarella shreds on top.
Finally, bake the bread in the oven until it reaches the desired level of crispiness. Some recipes suggest wrapping the bread in foil to trap the steam and keep the bread soft, removing the foil towards the end of the baking time to achieve a golden brown crust. The baking time will vary depending on the desired level of crispiness, but it typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes.
Vegan garlic bread is a tasty and indulgent treat, perfect for those who want to enjoy the classic side dish without dairy. It can be served alongside various meals, adding a delicious garlicky twist to any dish.
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Storage: Garlic bread with cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days
Garlic bread with cheese is a delicious treat, but it's important to store it properly to maintain freshness and quality. The best way to store garlic bread with cheese is in an airtight container in the fridge, which will keep it fresh for 2-3 days.
Storing garlic bread with cheese in an airtight container is essential to retain its flavour and texture. Airtight containers help to prevent the bread from drying out and keep the cheese from absorbing any unwanted refrigerator odours. They also protect the garlic bread with cheese from bacteria and contaminants, ensuring it stays safe to consume.
When storing garlic bread with cheese in the fridge, it's best to use a container that is specifically designed to be airtight, such as a glass or plastic container with a secure lid. This will ensure the quality and freshness of the garlic bread with cheese during storage.
It's worth noting that garlic bread with cheese can also be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days. However, storing it in the fridge will extend its shelf life and keep it fresh for a more extended period.
To reheat the garlic bread with cheese, simply toast the pieces in an oven or air fryer at a lower temperature until heated through and the cheese is melted. This will ensure the garlic bread with cheese retains its delicious taste and texture.
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Frequently asked questions
A medium slice of garlic bread with cheese (4" x 2 1/2" x 1 3/4") contains 38g of total carbs, 36g of net carbs, 25.2g of fat, 10.4g of protein, and 415 calories.
Garlic has many nutritional benefits. It contains antioxidants that support heart health and may help combat cancer. It also has antimicrobial properties, which may boost immunity. However, garlic bread is usually made with refined grains, which have a high glycemic index and can cause blood sugar spikes.
A healthier alternative to traditional garlic bread with cheese is to use vegan butter and vegan cheese. Another option is to use whole grains instead of refined grains to reduce the glycemic index of the bread.
To make garlic bread with cheese, mix olive oil, grated garlic, fresh chopped parsley, and chives in a small bowl. Spread the mixture on two bread halves and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano. Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
