Calabrian Chili Garlic Bread (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 stick unsalted butter, softened at room temperature (1/2 cup)
02 - 2 heads large garlic
03 - 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
04 - Kosher salt
05 - Freshly ground black pepper
06 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and basil
07 - 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese, with more to taste
08 - 1/2 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste (or chili flakes as a substitute)
09 - 1 french or sourdough baguette

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and bring the butter to room temperature. Slice off the top of the garlic heads, drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Wrap completely in aluminum foil and roast in the oven for 40 to 50 minutes until softened and browned.
02 - Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and set aside to cool. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
03 - Transfer the softened butter to a small bowl. Mix in the chopped parsley, basil, shredded parmesan, Calabrian chili paste, and season with salt and pepper. Add the roasted garlic by squeezing it out of its skins into the bowl, and stir well until combined.
04 - Slice the baguette into crostini rounds and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
05 - Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the baguette slices, topping with additional shredded parmesan as desired. Toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the bread is crisp on the outside but soft on the inside, and the butter mixture has melted.
06 - Remove from the oven, optionally top with more shredded parmesan, and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Use high-quality parmesan and fresh herbs for optimal flavor.
02 - Calabrian chili paste adds a unique depth of flavor but can be substituted with chili flakes if unavailable.