Olive and Herb Bread

Briny Kalamata olives and fragrant Mediterranean herbs infuse this rustic bread with deep, savory flavor in every bite. It is a sophisticated loaf that transforms a simple meal into something truly special.

• Prep time: 28 minutes
• Cook time: 32 minutes
• Total time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Medium
• Cuisine: International

Ingredients

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1.5 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup chopped pitted Kalamata olives
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Combine flour, yeast, salt, and herbs in a bowl.
2. Add water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Fold in the chopped olives.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and rise for 2 hours.
5. Shape into a round boule and place on a baking sheet.
6. Let rise for another 45 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden and firm.

Tips

• Pat the olives dry with a paper towel before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
• Use high-quality olives for the best flavor impact.
• Adding a small bowl of water in the oven while baking will help create a crispier crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use green olives?

Yes, green olives work well, though they will provide a different flavor profile than Kalamata.

Can I use a bread machine?

Yes, follow your machine's manual for dough settings and add the olives during the final mix cycle.

How do I serve this?

It is delicious served warm with extra virgin olive oil for dipping.