Easy Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic is one of those kitchen secrets that instantly elevates any dish. With just a few simple steps, garlic transforms from pungent and sharp to mellow, sweet, and spreadable. Whether you’re adding it to mashed potatoes, pasta, soups, or simply spreading it on toast, this easy roasted garlic recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Roast Garlic?
Roasting garlic softens its flavor, bringing out a natural sweetness and rich, buttery texture. It’s a versatile addition to many meals, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 or more whole garlic bulbs
- Olive oil
- Salt (optional)
- Aluminum foil or a small baking dish with lid
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare the Garlic
- Peel off the loose outer layers of the garlic bulb, leaving the skin of the individual cloves intact.
- Slice off the top of the bulb (about ¼ inch) to expose the tops of the garlic cloves.
- Add Oil
- Place the bulb on a piece of foil or in a small baking dish.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil, making sure it seeps into the cloves.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Wrap and Roast
- Wrap the bulb in foil or cover the baking dish.
- Roast in the oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the cloves are golden, soft, and caramelized.
- Cool and Squeeze
- Let the bulb cool slightly, then squeeze from the base to release the roasted cloves.
Tips and Variations
- Roast multiple bulbs at once and store the leftovers in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the cloves for longer storage.
- Infuse with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Add to butter for a simple roasted garlic spread.
How to Use Roasted Garlic
- Spread on toasted bread or crackers
- Mix into mashed potatoes or hummus
- Stir into pasta sauces, soups, or stews
- Blend into salad dressings or dips
- Use in homemade pizza or focaccia
Final Thoughts
Roasted garlic is an easy yet powerful way to add depth to your cooking. With minimal effort, you get a rich, savory ingredient that turns everyday dishes into something extraordinary. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it!
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