Looking for a delicious and healthy bread recipe? Look no further than this flavorful Tomato Basil Loaf, which packs just 140 calories per serving.

Not only does this bread taste great, but it's also full of healthy nutrients. Each serving contains a good dose of Vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to make this tasty dish, as well as explore its nutritional benefits and some great ways to serve it.

How to Make a Tomato Basil Loaf

To make this bread, you'll need to gather the following ingredients: - 2 cups of all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes - 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil - 1/2 tsp of salt - 1 tbsp of sugar - 1 tbsp of active dry yeast - 1/4 cup of warm water - 1/4 cup of low-fat milk - 1 egg To begin, mix together the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, egg, and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, then add the tomatoes and basil. Knead for another 2-3 minutes, then place the dough in a greased loaf pan. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F, then bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let the bread cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Loaf

As mentioned earlier, the ingredients for this bread are: - 2 cups of all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes - 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil - 1/2 tsp of salt - 1 tbsp of sugar - 1 tbsp of active dry yeast - 1/4 cup of warm water - 1/4 cup of low-fat milk - 1 egg These ingredients can easily be found at your local grocery store and are relatively inexpensive.

Nutritional Information of Tomato Basil Loaf

One serving (1 slice) of this bread contains: - 140 calories - 1.5g of fat - 27g of carbohydrates - 2g of fiber - 4g of protein - 8% DV of Vitamin C - 4% DV of potassium - 6% DV of iron As you can see, this bread is a nutritious choice that can easily be incorporated into a healthy diet.

Health Benefits of Tomato Basil Loaf

The ingredients in this bread offer a variety of health benefits. Some of these include: - Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant - Basil contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties - Low-fat milk is a good source of calcium and Vitamin D - Whole wheat flour provides fiber, which can help with digestion and weight management By choosing this bread over more processed options, you're also avoiding added preservatives and artificial ingredients.

Ways to Serve Tomato Basil Loaf

This bread is versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas: - Toasted with butter or jam for breakfast - Sliced as a lunchtime sandwich with turkey and veggies - Served alongside soup or salad for a filling and nutritious dinner - Topped with melted cheese and sliced tomatoes for a delicious appetizer The possibilities are endless - get creative with your serving ideas!

Tips for Baking Tomato Basil Loaf

Here are some tips to help you get the perfect loaf every time: - Make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin - Knead the bread dough thoroughly to ensure it rises properly - Let the dough rise in a warm place, such as an oven with the light on, to help it rise more quickly - Brush the top of the bread with egg wash or melted butter for a nice golden crust With these tips, you'll be baking like a pro in no time!

Variations of Tomato Basil Loaf

Experiment with different variations of this bread to keep things interesting. Some ideas include: - Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor - Mixing in grated Parmesan cheese or garlic for a savory twist - Using whole wheat flour for a denser texture and more fiber - Topping the bread with different herbs or spices for a unique flavor Don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

History of Tomato Basil Loaf

Unfortunately, we couldn't find any information on the specific history of this bread recipe. However, the combination of tomatoes and basil is a classic flavor pairing that originated in Italy. Tomatoes and basil are frequently used together in Italian cuisine, such as in the popular dish Caprese salad. This bread is just another delicious way to enjoy this flavorful duo.

Tomato Basil Loaf vs. Other Breads

Compared to many other types of bread, this Tomato Basil Loaf is a healthier choice. Some popular types of bread and how they compare include: - White bread: higher in calories and refined carbohydrates, lower in nutrients - Sourdough bread: lower in calories, higher in nutrients and digestive enzymes - Whole wheat bread: higher in fiber and nutrients, lower on the glycemic index Of course, the best type of bread for you depends on your individual health needs and dietary preferences.

Where to Buy Tomato Basil Loaf

If you don't have the time or energy to make this bread from scratch, you may be able to find it at a local bakery or grocery store. Look for loaves labeled 'Tomato Basil' or ask your bakery if they make a similar bread. Alternatively, you could try making your own version of this bread using store-bought pizza dough or another premade bread mix.