Description
Mediterranean Garlic and Olive Artisan Bread is a rustic loaf infused with garlic, olives, and fragrant herbs—ideal for dipping in olive oil or serving alongside Mediterranean dishes.
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or 1/2 tsp dried
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried
- Optional: flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Gently knead in garlic, olives, rosemary, and thyme until evenly distributed.
- Shape dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or baking stone inside to heat.
- Once risen, turn dough onto parchment, slash top with a sharp knife.
- Carefully transfer dough (on parchment) into hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake 20 minutes.
- Remove lid and bake another 10–12 minutes until golden and crusty. If not using a Dutch oven, bake directly on stone or baking sheet with steam (a pan of water in oven).
- Cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with sea salt, if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Feel free to substitute green olives or a mix of olives.
- Garlic can be roasted beforehand for a milder, sweeter note.
- Store in a paper bag for up to 2 days; refresh in a hot oven to crisp up.