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Olive Bread

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This rustic Olive Bread is soft and flavorful, packed with briny olives and seasoned with herbs. It’s perfect as a side to soups, salads, or simply enjoyed with a smear of butter or olive oil.

Ingredients

Scale

For the bread dough:

  • 3 ½ cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the filling:

  • 1 cup (150 g) pitted olives, chopped (black, green, or a mix)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  • Prepare the yeast mixture:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • Mix the dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  • Add the olives and herbs:
    • Fold in the chopped olives, rosemary, and oregano. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
  • First rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the dough:
    • Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf or an oval. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
  • Second rise:
    • Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Bake the bread:
    • Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Cool and serve:
    • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use kalamata or Castelvetrano olives for a more robust flavor.
  • This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.