How to Make a Bread Basket

A bread basket moves a meal from humdrum to fun...and it cuts down on the dishes! Bread baskets can be filled with salads, dips, vegetables, rolls; just be sure it’s not too full of liquid to cause your bowl to leak.

To make a bread basket, cut 1 inch (2.5 cm) off the top of a loaf of French bread. Hollow out the loaf, leaving a 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) shell. Reserve bread pieces for another use. Whisk together 2 tbsp (25 mL) olive oil and 1 tbsp (15 mL) balsamic vinegar; brush over inside of loaf. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 - 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely before filling.