4 large garlic bulbs (about 12 oz. total)
1/2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 tsp. salt
Freshly ground pepper
8 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/4 tsp. dried

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the garlic bulbs sideways on a work surface and cut off the top third (opposite the root end) of each bulb and discard. Place each bulb cut side up in a 6 ounce ramekin. Brush each cut surface with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Place 2 sprigs of thyme on each bulb. Cover snugly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, until the flesh is soft. Discard the foil, let the garlic cool slightly then remove from ramekins and serve 1 per person.