Spicy Topped French Bread with Black Olives and Mozzarella 🌶️🍞🧀

This scrumptious dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for an appetizer, snack, or a fun addition to any meal. The spicy topping complements the creamy mozzarella and salty black olives, while the crispy French bread serves as the ideal base. Get ready for a taste explosion! Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a zesty lemonade for a refreshing experience. 🍷🍋

Ingredients

For the bread

• 1 large French baguette (about 12 inches)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the spicy topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

🔥 A hotter oven will help achieve that dreamily crispy texture on your French bread while melting the cheese perfectly.

• Slice the French baguette in half lengthwise and place the halves on a baking sheet.

• In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper together. Brush the mixture generously over the insides of the baguette halves.

• In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced black olives, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and jalapeños. Mix well.

• Evenly distribute the spicy cheese mixture over the brushed sides of the baguette halves.

🧀Feel free to customize the spice level! Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce if you like it extra fiery.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

• Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color before serving.

Variations

• Vegan: Use vegan mozzarella cheese and a plant-based spread for the olive oil mixture for a delicious dairy-free option.

• Herbaceous: Add fresh basil or thyme to the cheese topping for an aromatic twist.

• Meaty: For a heartier version, top the bread with cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or spicy chorizo before adding the cheese.

• High altitude: If you're baking at high altitude, consider reducing the baking time slightly as items can cook faster due to lower atmospheric pressure.

Indulge in this spicy topped French bread with black olives and mozzarella, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite! 🌟