Indulge in the rustic flavors of Italy with this delicious olive and herb focaccia bread recipe. Perfect for serving as an appetizer, alongside a meal, or even as a snack, this savory bread is infused with aromatic herbs and briny olives, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 cup chopped mixed fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano)
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, chopped (black or green, or a mix)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use your hands to gently stretch and shape the dough into a rectangle or oval, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Press your fingertips into the dough to create dimples across the surface. Drizzle the dough with olive oil and sprinkle the chopped herbs and olives evenly over the top, pressing them gently into the dough.
- Cover the dough loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until slightly puffed.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once the dough has finished rising, bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
Enjoy this olive and herb focaccia warm from the oven, accompanied by a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. It’s the perfect addition to any meal or gathering!
