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Mediterranean Garlic and Olive Artisan Bread

  • Author: slsrecipes
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including rising)
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until dough forms.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Gently knead in garlic, olives, rosemary, and thyme until evenly distributed.
  5. 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.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or baking stone inside to heat.
  7. Once risen, turn dough onto parchment, slash top with a sharp knife.
  8. Carefully transfer dough (on parchment) into hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake 20 minutes.
  9. 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).
  10. 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.