Ther’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and when that bread is a rustic olive and rosemary focaccia, the experience becomes truly unforgettable. this simple yet flavorful delight combines the earthy richness of Mediterranean olives with the fragrant,piney notes of rosemary,creating a bread that’s both hearty and aromatic. Perfect as a snack,accompaniment,or centerpiece for any meal,rustic olive and rosemary focaccia invites you to savor tradition with every bite-inviting warmth,taste,and a touch of artisanal charm into your home baking. In this article, we’ll explore the secrets behind crafting this beloved Italian classic, celebrating its simplicity and the bold flavors that make it a perennial favorite.
Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia: Simple, Flavorful Delight
Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia: Simple, Flavorful Delight is more than a bread-it’s a sensory journey steeped in Mediterranean tradition. The artful marriage of briny olives and fragrant rosemary folded into tender, airy dough creates an unforgettable harmony of texture and taste. My first encounter with this classic dish was in a sunlit Italian kitchen, where the baker’s hands worked magic transforming simple ingredients into rustic beauty. This recipe invites you to embrace both technique and fresh, quality ingredients to craft a focaccia that sings with authentic flavor.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield
One large focaccia, serving 6-8 peopel as an appetizer or side.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate – requires patience for dough rising but straightforward steps.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 105°F/40°C)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- Sea salt flakes for finishing
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes untill frothy, signaling the yeast is alive.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sifted flour and kosher salt.
- Form dough: Pour the activated yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon to bring the dough together, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First proof: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place dough inside, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Prepare baking pan: Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking sheet with ¼ cup olive oil, ensuring a slick, glistening surface to aid crisping and prevent sticking.
- shape the dough: Transfer risen dough to the pan and gently stretch it out with your fingertips, pushing to all edges-don’t worry about perfect edges; rustic charm is part of the appeal.
- Top with olives & rosemary: Press halved Kalamata olives into the dough, spacing them evenly. Sprinkle fresh rosemary liberally. Then, drizzle remaining ¼ cup olive oil over the surface for that signature golden sheen and aroma.
- Second rise: cover loosely and let dough rest for 30 minutes to puff slightly and absorb flavors.
- Add dimples: use your fingertips to gently press dimples into the dough, creating little pockets that cradle olive oil and herbs beautifully during baking.
- Bake: Place the pan on the middle oven rack preheated to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes,or until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- Finish & cool: Remove focaccia from oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt.Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success: mastering Your Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia
- Olive selection: For the most authentic flavor, choose Kalamata olives or Ligurian olives with a rich, fruity depth. Avoid overly salty jarred olives by rinsing lightly in cold water if needed.
- Rosemary freshness: Always opt for fresh, tender sprigs. Chop finely to release essential oils,which bloom during baking and infuse the dough aromatically.
- Dough hydration: Slightly sticky dough signals proper hydration, which is key to that airy, rustic crumb. Use room-temperature water and avoid flour over-addition while kneading.
- Slow fermentation: For extra flavor complexity, refrigerate dough after the first rise overnight (covered).bring to room temperature before shaping and proceed as directed.
- Make-ahead tip: Baked focaccia stores beautifully. Warm slices gently in an oven set at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to refresh crispness before serving.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia
This focaccia shines best when served warm, straight from the oven, accompanied by a bowl of rich, house-made tomato soup or a rustic charcuterie board. Garnish with a final sprinkle of fresh rosemary and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. cut into generous squares or tear into irregular rustic chunks for a casual, communal vibe. Pair it with chilled white wine or a robust Italian red to complement the herbaceous and olive notes elegantly.
Nutritional Data (per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 280 kcal | 6 g | 35 g | 12 g |
For more delicious Italian breads, check our complete focaccia guide.To deepen your understanding of high-quality olive oils, visit the International Olive Council.
Q&A
Q&A: Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia – Simple, Flavorful Delight
Q1: What makes this Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia so special?
A1: The magic lies in its simplicity and harmony. Fluffy, golden bread infused with aromatic rosemary and studded with briny olives creates a rustic charm that’s both humble and unforgettable. It’s a delightful balance of earthy herbs and savory bites, perfect as a snack or accompaniment.
Q2: Is this focaccia tough to make at home?
A2: Not at all! Despite its artisanal appearance, this focaccia is surprisingly straightforward. With just a handful of basic ingredients like flour, yeast, olive oil, rosemary, and olives, anyone can bake it. The key is in gentle kneading, a patient rise, and a joyful dimpled press before popping it into the oven.
Q3: Can I customize the olives or herbs in this recipe?
A3: Absolutely! While Kalamata olives and fresh rosemary bring classic Mediterranean flair,feel free to experiment. Green olives or Castelvetrano add milder notes, and herbs like thyme or oregano can offer new dimensions of flavor. The focaccia is your canvas-get creative!
Q4: What’s the best way to serve this focaccia?
A4: This focaccia shines warm and fresh from the oven, drizzled with a little extra virgin olive oil. Serve it alongside soups, salads, or charcuterie boards. It also makes a fantastic base for sandwiches,inviting you to layer meats,cheeses,and roasted veggies.
Q5: How does the rosemary influence the bread’s flavor?
A5: rosemary infuses the dough with a piney, slightly peppery fragrance that elevates the bread beyond plain focusing on aromatic depth. It awakens the senses with every bite and pairs beautifully with the olives’ salty punch.
Q6: Is this recipe suitable for beginners in baking?
A6: Definitely! Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia is an excellent gateway bread recipe. Its forgiving dough and straightforward steps make it welcoming for novice bakers eager to explore homemade bread without intimidation.
Q7: How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
A7: Wrap your focaccia tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight bag, then toast or warm them slightly before serving to regain that fresh-baked aroma and texture.
Q8: Can this focaccia be made vegan?
A8: Yes! Customary focaccia is naturally vegan-no eggs or dairy involved. Just ensure your yeast and olive oil are plant-based, and you’re set for a fully vegan-friendly rustic delight.
Q9: What inspired this particular flavor combination?
A9: The fusion of olives and rosemary is a timeless Mediterranean pairing, inspired by sun-soaked coastal kitchens where simple ingredients come together to create soulful dishes. This focaccia channels that spirit-earthy, fragrant, and utterly satisfying.
Q10: Why should I try making Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia today?
A10: Because nothing quite beats the comfort of warm, fragrant bread fresh from your own oven. This focaccia invites you to slow down,savor simplicity,and celebrate rustic flavors with every bite. Plus, it’s a stunning way to impress friends and feed family with homemade goodness.
Wrapping up
Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or savored at room temperature, this Rustic Olive & Rosemary Focaccia is a testament to how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can come together to create something truly unforgettable.Its crispy crust, fragrant rosemary, and briny olives weave a comforting tapestry of flavors that invite you to pause and relish each bite. Perfect as a standalone snack, a side for soups and salads, or the foundation for your favorite sandwiches, this focaccia embodies the rustic charm and culinary simplicity that make homemade bread so rewarding. So next time you crave a slice of soulful goodness, remember that a little olive oil, fresh herbs, and a touch of patience can yield a loaf that’s as delightful as it is timeless.
