Garlic and Herb Bread

° Makes 1 loaf (serves 4)

This bread is especially good with a hearty soup. I use a long, thin French-style baguette, but you can use another type of unsliced bread if you prefer. Although the bread can be prepared ahead, it is best to bake it at the last moment and serve it while it is still warm.

• 1 French-style baguette (8 to 10 ounces)
• 3 tablespoons peanut oil
• About 4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped fine (2 teaspoons)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Split the baguette horizontally in half. Mix together the oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and pepper in a small bowl. Spread this mixture on the cut side of each baguette half.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Just before serving time, arrange the bread halves cut side up on a cookie sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Cut into pieces and serve while still warm.

Season the bread ahead, but bake it at the last minute and serve while it’s still warm.