Bread with Olive Oil

Experience the rustic simplicity of homemade bread with olive oil, a timeless pairing that celebrates the beauty of fresh, wholesome ingredients. This artisanal bread features a golden, crusty exterior and a tender, airy crumb infused with optional hints of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for added flavor. Made with pantry staples like all-purpose flour, yeast, and a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, this recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Whether dipped into velvety olive oil with a sprinkle of sea salt or paired alongside soups and charcuterie boards, this versatile bread is a culinary classic that will elevate any meal. With just 20 minutes of hands-on preparation and the allure of freshly baked bread filling your home, this recipe guarantees both satisfaction and sophistication.

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 350 milliliters Warm water (around 40°C/105°F)
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 60 milliliters Olive oil (high-quality, extra virgin)
• 1 teaspoon Optional dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. If using dried herbs, mix them in as well.

Step 3

Gradually pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a little flour while kneading.

Step 5

Bring the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and place a Dutch oven or baking stone inside to heat up.

Step 7

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a piece of parchment paper to make transferring easier.

Step 8

Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven or baking stone from the oven. Place the parchment paper and dough inside (if using a Dutch oven, cover it with the lid).

Step 9

Bake for 30-35 minutes, removing the lid halfway through if using a Dutch oven, until the bread has a deep golden color and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10

Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Step 11

Serve slices of the bread with a small dish of high-quality olive oil for dipping. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to the oil if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	438.9 grams (438.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	569

Total Fat 60.40g	77%
Saturated Fat 8.90g	45%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4724mg	205%
Total Carbohydrate 7.20g	3%
Dietary Fiber 1.60g	6%
Total Sugars 4.20g
Protein 2.80g	6%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 5mg	0%
Iron 0mg	2%
Potassium 146mg	3%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 93.1%

Protein: 1.9%

Carbs: 4.9%