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There’s something undeniably inviting about the rich aroma of roasted garlic wafting through the kitchen, especially when paired with the salty umami of anchovies. This delightful recipe for Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast is an easy yet impressive appetizer that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a gourmet snack, these toasts offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.

Imagine the crispness of thick-cut sourdough, perfectly charred and ready to cradle velvety roasted garlic puree and savory anchovies. It’s comfort food with a sophisticated flair, made with love and minimal fuss. So let’s skip the fast food and dive into a homemade treat that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. Ready to craft this mouthwatering dish? Let’s get started!

Why will you love Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast?

Indulge in every bite of this unique flavor combination that elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

Simplicity: With just a few easy-to-find ingredients, you can make a stunning dish that impresses!
Comfort Food: This recipe blends the familiarity of toast with the gourmet touch of roasted garlic and anchovies.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to personalize with a variety of add-ons like fresh herbs or creamy cheeses!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for sharing at gatherings, this app will leave your guests craving more.
Time-Saving: With minimal prep and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in no time.

Dive into the world of homemade, satisfying flavors—your taste buds will thank you!

Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast Ingredients

For the Roasted Garlic
Garlic Bulbs – Essential for creating that creamy texture in the roasted puree; try using raw garlic for a sharper taste if you prefer.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds depth and richness; always select a high-quality oil for the best flavor results.
For the Toasts
Sourdough Bread – The perfect base with its hearty texture; any thick-cut bread like ciabatta or focaccia will work well as a substitute.
Lemon Juice – Provides a bright acidity to balance the richness of the dish; if you’re out, white vinegar can be a great alternative.
For the Topping
Anchovies – The stars of this dish, delivering that bold umami flavor; feel free to use tinned sardines for a different twist.

Make these delightful toasts your next homemade appetizer, and watch as everyone falls in love with Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast!

How to Make Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 130°C (fan-forced). While it warms up, prepare your garlic bulbs by drizzling them with olive oil and seasoning. Wrap them in foil to lock in all that goodness!
Roast the garlic: Place the wrapped garlic on a tray and roast for 1½ to 2 hours. You’re looking for them to be tender and lightly golden. Once done, let them cool before unwrapping.
Make the garlic puree: Squeeze the soft roasted garlic from the skins into a bowl. Add a splash of lemon juice and the remaining olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy, seasoning to taste for that perfect flavor balance.
Prepare the bread: Get your barbecue or char-grill pan hot! Drizzle your sliced sourdough with olive oil and season lightly. Grill the slices for 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and have nice char marks.
Assemble the toasts: Spread a generous layer of your delicious garlic puree over each grilled slice. Then, cut each slice into four and top with two anchovies to make every bite unforgettable!
Serve and enjoy: Arrange your toasts beautifully on a platter. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to elevate those flavors!

Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy gourmet flavors with less last-minute effort! You can roast the garlic up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap the garlic bulbs in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and store in the refrigerator once cooled. Before serving, grill the sourdough bread, spread the garlic puree, and top with anchovies. For the best texture, toast the bread just before serving—this keeps it delightfully crisp. With this prep, you’ll be creating a delicious appetizer that will wow your guests with minimal fuss on the day of your gathering!

Expert Tips for Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast

Cool Garlic First: Allow roasted garlic to cool before handling to avoid burns. This ensures safe and easy preparation of the creamy puree.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Properly salting the garlic and bread before grilling enhances the overall flavor of the toasts.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling. The richness significantly affects the taste of Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix it up! Try adding finely chopped herbs, ripe tomatoes, or even a layer of cream cheese for variety in flavor.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy these toasts right after preparation for the best texture and flavor. If making ahead, store the garlic separately and toast the bread fresh.

Storage Tips for Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast

Room Temperature: The toasts are best enjoyed fresh but can remain at room temperature for about an hour after serving. Keep covered to maintain warmth.
Fridge: Store any leftover garlic puree in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can be easily spread on other toasts or sandwiches.
Freezer: Freeze the roasted garlic in small portions in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw before use to puree and spread onto fresh bread.
Reheating: If you’ve prepared the toasts in advance, grill fresh bread and spread leftover garlic puree just before serving for optimal flavor with Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast.

What to Serve with Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast?

These incredible toasts are perfect for kickstarting your culinary adventure and complementing any gathering!

Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the toasts will brighten your plate.
Bruschetta Toppings: Fresh diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella add a vibrant twist, providing a lovely contrast to the savory anchovies.
White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the umami flavor while refreshing your palate between bites.
Olives and Antipasti Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and pickled vegetables provides delightful saltiness and acidity, elevating the overall experience.
Creamy Hummus: Smooth chickpea dip with a drizzle of olive oil creates a delightful spreadable option that pairs well with the toasts’ texture.
Textured Cheese Selection: Offering hard cheeses, such as Manchego or Parmigiano-Reggiano, brings a rich creaminess that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Light Dessert: End the meal with something like a lemon sorbet or panna cotta for a refreshing finish that echoes the lemon notes in your toasts.
Mini Breadsticks: Crunchy and savory, these bites can keep your guests entertained and satiated while waiting for the main event of the meal.

Variations & Substitutions for Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful recipe to match your taste preferences!

Smoked Salmon: Swap anchovies for smoked salmon for a deliciously different seafood twist. The smoky flavor adds depth, perfect for brunch.
Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or chives to the garlic puree for a refreshing herbal note that brightens every bite. The fresh taste combines beautifully with the creamy garlic.
Creamy Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese or ricotta underneath the garlic for an ultra-creamy texture that takes comfort food up a notch. Creamy and dreamy!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the anchovies to introduce a touch of heat. This twist creates an exciting flavor explosion for spice lovers.
Vegetarian Version: Replace anchovies with sun-dried tomatoes or marinated artichokes to create a savory vegetarian option without losing flavor.
Charred Vegetables: After grilling, add thin slices of charred zucchini or bell peppers on your toast for a vibrant veggie layer full of flavor. Every bite gets a tasty crunch!
Balsamic Drizzle: Finish your toasts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an unexpected tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
Feta Crumbles: Crumble tangy feta cheese over the top for a salty, creamy addition that pairs perfectly with the roasted garlic. It adds a delightful Mediterranean flair!

Adapt these ideas according to your palate and enjoy every delicious bite!

Neil Perry’s Anchovies and Roast Garlic on Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best garlic bulbs?
Look for firm bulbs with tight, dry skins and no dark spots or sprouting. The cloves should feel dense, indicating freshness. Avoid any bulbs that feel soft or have extensive blemishes.

What is the best way to store leftover garlic puree?
Store any leftover garlic puree in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the lid to prevent oxidation and browning.

Can I freeze roasted garlic? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freeze the roasted garlic puree in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top freezer bag and seal tightly. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. Simply thaw the cubes before spreading them onto fresh bread for use in Neil Perry’s anchovies and roast garlic on toast.

How long can the finished toasts be left out?
While they are best served fresh, you can leave the toasts out at room temperature for about an hour. Just cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm. If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the garlic puree and bread separately to maintain texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This recipe does contain anchovies, which can be an allergen for some. If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider offering a variation with smoked salmon or a vegetarian option without anchovies while including plenty of herbs or cheese as toppings.