Frozen Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a part baked baguette or loaf sliced and filled with butter or a spread mixed with garlic and parsley, then frozen so it goes straight into the oven. As it bakes the crust crisps and the garlic butter melts into the crumb, which is what makes it the easiest side on the table. It is a family favourite with pasta and lasagne, with a bowl of soup, and alongside grilled kebabs or a mild curry when there is no time to make naan.

Check whether the baguette is sliced through or part sliced, and how many come in the pack, then bake only what you need and keep the rest in the freezer. Read the label for allergens: garlic bread usually contains wheat and milk.

Bake from frozen on a tray in a preheated oven as the pack directs, usually around ten minutes, until the crust is golden and the butter is bubbling. Leave it to stand for a minute before slicing, as the filling is very hot. For a spicier version, scatter a little chopped green chilli and coriander over the top before baking. Keep frozen at -18°C and do not refreeze once thawed. For Indian breads from the freezer, see naan and kulcha and the full range of frozen parathas and breads.