Olive Breads Recipe
Olive bread is a delightful fusion of the rich, earthy flavors of olives with the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread.
Whether enjoyed as a standalone snack, served alongside a meal, or used as a base for sandwiches and bruschetta, olive bread is sure to please the palate of any bread lover.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making homemade olive bread, including various options for incorporating olives into the dough, shaping the bread, and serving it with complementary ingredients.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup pitted olives (such as Kalamata, green, or a mix), chopped
Optional Additions:
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
For Topping (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Sprigs of fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme)
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
Stir until the dough starts to come together.
Add the chopped olives (and any optional additions) and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Bread:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round loaf or divide it into smaller portions to make individual rolls or baguettes.
Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise:
Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has doubled in size again.
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Optional Topping:
If desired, brush the top of the risen dough with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh herbs.
Bake the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If making smaller rolls or baguettes, adjust the baking time accordingly.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serve the olive bread warm or at room temperature, with butter, olive oil, or your favorite dips.
Tips for Success:
Olive Selection: Choose high-quality olives for the best flavor. Kalamata, green, or a mix of olives work well in olive bread. Make sure to pit the olives before chopping them.
Optional Additions: Feel free to customize the bread by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, fresh herbs, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to develop the gluten structure, which gives the bread its chewy texture.
Rising Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place to ensure proper fermentation and a good rise.
Variations:
Mediterranean Olive Bread:
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary and thyme) to the dough for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutty Olive Bread:
Incorporate chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) into the dough for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Spicy Olive Bread:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Olive Bread:
Mix grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese into the dough for a cheesy variation.
Olive and Onion Focaccia:
Use the olive bread dough to make focaccia and top it with sliced onions and olives before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
Antipasto Platter:
Serve slices of olive bread alongside cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives for a delicious antipasto platter.
Bruschetta Base:
Toast slices of olive bread and top them with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a classic bruschetta.
Sandwiches:
Use olive bread to make sandwiches with fillings like sliced turkey, ham, cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a flavorful lunch or picnic option.
Soup Accompaniment:
Serve olive bread with a bowl of hot soup, such as tomato, minestrone, or vegetable soup. The hearty texture of the bread pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
Olive Oil Dipping:
Slice olive bread and serve it with a bowl of extra-virgin olive oil seasoned with herbs, garlic, and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits:
Olive bread offers various nutritional benefits, including:
Heart-Healthy Fats: Olives and olive oil are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Fiber: Whole wheat flour and olives contain dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Antioxidants: Olives are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Cultural Significance:
Olive bread reflects the culinary traditions of Mediterranean countries, where olives have been a staple ingredient for centuries. Olives are revered for their rich flavor, versatility, and health benefits, and they are often used in various dishes, from salads and pasta to bread and pastries. Olive bread embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine, celebrating simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delicious and satisfying