Toasted Garlic Pita Bread

Makes six 5-inch pitas

This is a very simple recipe for garlic bread using toasted pita instead of the traditional French or Italian loaves. They can be served as an accompaniment to a meal, or cut into triangles and added to a party buffet as is or with dips and spreads.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 6 pita breads, about 5-inch diameter
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly ground pepper

Preheat oven to 350° F. Place the oil and garlic in a small bowl. Microwave on high until garlic is softened, about 40 seconds. Be careful not to brown. Place the pita breads on baking sheets. Using a brush, spread some oil and garlic on top of each pita. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, parsley and pepper. Bake until hot and slightly browned, 10-15 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve hot, warm or room temperature.

Notes: If crispier bread is desired, use a hotter oven. Herbs or spices other than parsley can be used. This is equally good with white or whole wheat pita. Leftover toasts can be wrapped in foil and stored in the refrigerator for several days. Open the foil to reheat in a 350° oven for about 5 minutes.