Roasted Garlic

Directions

1. 1
   In this recipe, we do not peel the garlic bulb but rather roast it in its papery covering.
2. 2
   With a very sharp knife, remove just enough of the root end of the garlic bulb to flatten it enough to sit upright.
3. 3
   From the more tapered, flower end of the bulb, slice 1/4 to 1/2-inch off the top to reveal the garlic cloves within, but do not remove too much of the cloves' flesh.
4. 4
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the garlic bulbs upright in a baking dish, and drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil over the top of the exposed cloves.
5. 5
   Season with a touch of salt and pepper, cover with aluminum foil, and roast 30 to 35 minutes, until the garlic cloves take on a rich golden color and the papery covering has begun to brown but has not blackened.
6. 6
   Remove from the oven and cool several minutes before serving.
7. 7
   The garlic also can be served at room temperature and used in place of butter on the dinner table.