Olive Bread

Olive Bread is a rustic, savory loaf packed with briny olives and a hint of herbs. With its golden crust and soft interior, this bread is perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The olives add a salty, tangy depth to the bread.
• Easy to Make: A straightforward recipe with minimal hands-on time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great as a centerpiece for gatherings or as a side dish.
• Versatile: Serve it with dips, cheese, or olive oil for a Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Warm water
• Active dry yeast
• Salt
• Sugar
• Olive oil
• Mixed olives (pitted and chopped; black, green, or kalamata)
• Fresh or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano)

Directions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Add Olives: Fold in the chopped olives and herbs, mixing evenly throughout the dough.
4. Knead Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second Rise: Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Olive Bread: Add shredded Parmesan or feta cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
• No-Knead Version: Use a no-knead bread recipe and simply fold in the olives and herbs.
• Stuffed Olive Bread: Roll the dough out flat, spread olive tapenade inside, and roll it up before baking.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore freshness.

FAQs

What type of olives should I use?

Kalamata, green, or black olives work well. Choose your favorite or use a mix for variety.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Is this bread vegan?

Yes, as long as you use vegan-friendly olives and olive oil.

Can I freeze olive bread?

Yes, freeze the loaf or slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Sundried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or nuts pair well with the olives.

What can I serve with olive bread?

Serve it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, hummus, or a cheese platter.

How do I keep the bread crusty?

Let the bread cool uncovered to maintain its crust. Storing in a sealed bag will soften the crust.

Can I bake this bread in a Dutch oven?

Yes, bake it in a preheated Dutch oven with the lid on for the first 20 minutes, then remove the lid for the last 10 minutes.

What herbs work best with olive bread?

Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil complement the olives beautifully.

Conclusion

Olive Bread is a flavorful and versatile recipe that brings a touch of Mediterranean magic to your table. With its crisp crust, tender crumb, and briny olive pieces, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Pair it with your favorite dips, cheeses, or soups, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors in every bite.

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