Garlic Bread (Garlic Toast)

Servings: 8

Ingredients
1 pound Italian loaf or French loaf
1/2 cup softened unsalted butter (can also use salted)*
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1/8 teaspoon sea salt

Optional:
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
OR
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For garnishing:
Extra parsley and chives

Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Slice bread in half lengthwise and place on a large baking sheet, cut sides up.
In a medium bowl, mix butter, garlic, parsley and salt together until well combined. Spread evenly over bread.
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until slightly golden brown on the edges. If you want to add cheese, add it in the last 2 minutes of baking. If you like crispier garlic bread, bake for 3-5 minutes more, watching carefully until it is as golden as you like.