Mediterranean Garlic and Olive Artisan Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mediterranean Garlic and Olive Artisan Bread is a crusty, aromatic loaf packed with bold, savory flavors. Bursting with roasted garlic, briny olives, and a touch of herbs, this rustic bread is perfect for dipping, serving with cheese, or enjoying on its own. Easy to make with minimal kneading, it brings bakery-style quality straight to your kitchen.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

all-purpose or bread flour
instant yeast
salt
warm water
roasted garlic (mashed)
Kalamata or green olives (pitted and chopped)
olive oil
dried oregano or rosemary (optional)

directions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and instant yeast.

Add warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Mix in roasted garlic, chopped olives, and herbs. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 8-12 hours.

Once risen, turn dough out onto a floured surface. Gently shape into a ball.

Place on parchment paper and let rise for another 30-45 minutes while the oven preheats to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.

Carefully transfer the dough (on the parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.

Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 large loaf (8-10 slices).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Rising time: 8-12 hours
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: about 9-13 hours (including rise)

Variations

Add sun-dried tomatoes or feta for more Mediterranean flair.
Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a brighter flavor.
Sprinkle with coarse salt before baking for added texture.
Shape into rolls for individual servings.
Replace some flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste.

storage/reheating

Store at room temperature in a paper bag or wrapped in a towel for up to 2 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months—slice first for easy use.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crust.

FAQs

Do I need a Dutch oven?
It helps create a crisp crust, but you can bake on a sheet pan with a pan of water underneath.

Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, dissolve it in warm water before mixing.

What olives work best?
Kalamata and green olives add bold flavor—use what you love.

Is this bread sourdough?
No, but it has a deep flavor from the long fermentation.

Can I speed up the rise?
A warm environment can shorten the rise, but longer fermentation gives better texture.

Can I use garlic powder instead?
Roasted garlic adds more depth, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.

How do I know it’s done?
The crust should be golden and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped.

Can I add cheese?
Yes, mix in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella with the olives.

Is this bread vegan?
Yes, it contains no dairy or eggs.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Garlic and Olive Artisan Bread is a flavorful, crusty loaf that combines rustic charm with bold Mediterranean ingredients. Simple to make and stunning to serve, it’s the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or cheese boards. One bite and you’ll taste the warmth of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen.

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