Sarasota's Roasted Garlic Spread Recipe

"By far one of my favorite appetizers. It is so easy to make, and inexpensive too. Serve with your favorite crackers, bread sticks, or toasted baguettes. I actually like to put this in a small warmer (like a mini fondue warmer) for everyone to share; but, it isn't necessary. You can simply put this in a heavy clay pot, or serving dish with a lid to keep it warm. I drizzle with extra olive oil, and your choice of garnishes. I prefer red pepper flakes, and sometimes a few fresh herbs in season. But, make it your own. It is absolutely addictive."

Original is 8-12 servings

Metric US

I've Tried It

Ingredients

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5 heads garlic (whole bulbs)
3 tablespoons olive oil (1 to roast, 2 to finish)
1/2 fresh thyme, chopped
Salt
Pepper

Garnish (optional)
Red pepper flakes
Parmesan or pecorino romano cheese, grated
Fresh herbs (fresh thyme or rosemary, minced)

Nutritional

Serving Size: 1 (92.8 g)
Calories 175.3
Total Fat - 5.7 g
Saturated Fat - 0.9 g
Cholesterol - 10.2 mg
Sodium - 18.5 mg
Total Carbohydrate - 28.1 g
Dietary Fiber - 1.8 g
Sugars - 0.9 g
Protein - 5.8 g
Calcium - 155.4 mg
Iron - 1.5 mg
Vitamin C - 26.5 mg
Thiamin - 0.2 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Garlic ... Cut a thin slice (about 1/4") off the top of the garlic head. You want all the individual cloves to be exposed. Set all 3 on a sheet of foil about a 12"x12" piece, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil; and, season with salt and pepper. Wrap up like a little present; or like a Hersheys Kiss, and place on a small sheet or baking pan.

Step 2

Bake ... In a 400 degree oven, middle shelf, for approximately 50-60 minutes until the garlic is soft. Once the garlic is done, open up the foil, and allow the garlic to cool enough, so you can handle it.

Step 3

Spread ... Literally squeeze, all the garlic into a small bowl. Sometimes you may need to pull it apart a bit in order to get all the garlic out of each clove. But, the garlic should squeeze right out of the cloves. Once you get all the garlic out; add, 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil (save the remaining 1/2 tablespoon as a garnish), thyme, and a pinch of both salt and pepper, and mix to combine.

Step 4

Finish, Serve, and ENJOY! ... Drizzle the remaining 1/2 tablespoon over the top; and, garnish with a pinch of red pepper flakes, some additional thyme or rosemary, or grated cheese - garnishes are optional. Spread or dip your favorite crackers, bread sticks, or toasted baguettes, etc. It is seriously addictive!!