Hearty Herb and Olive Bread

When it comes to complementing a hearty dinner, nothing quite matches the satisfaction of freshly baked bread. This unique Herbed Olive Bread combines fragrant herbs and briny olives, creating a flavorful loaf that is not only delicious but also versatile enough to pair with any meal. Whether you're serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup, a classic pasta dish, or a simple salad, this bread is sure to impress.

Why This Bread?

1. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh herbs and olives adds a savory depth to the bread, making it a standout addition to any dinner table.

2. Hearty Texture: The inclusion of whole wheat flour and a mix of all-purpose flour gives this bread a hearty texture that is satisfying and filling.

3. Easy to Make: While it may seem like a gourmet creation, this bread is surprisingly easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time.

Recipe for Hearty Herb and Olive Bread

Ingredients

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup whole wheat flour

- 1 ½ teaspoons salt

- 2 teaspoons instant yeast

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)

- ¼ cup olive oil

- 1 cup mixed olives (green and black), pitted and roughly chopped

- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

- Extra flour for dusting

Prep Time

- Active Prep Time: 15 minutes

- Resting Time: 1 hour (for the dough to rise)

- Baking Time: 30-35 minutes

- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, instant yeast, and sugar. Stir until well mixed.

2. Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Incorporate Olives and Herbs

3. Add Flavor: Gently fold in the chopped olives, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

4. Knead: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Bread

6. Shape: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to your floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf.

7. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

8. Preheat: While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Bake the Bread

9. Bake: Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This Hearty Herb and Olive Bread is perfect for serving alongside:

- Hearty Soups: Pair it with a rich minestrone or tomato basil soup.

- Pasta Dishes: Serve it alongside spaghetti aglio e olio or creamy fettuccine Alfredo.

- Salads: Complement it with a fresh mixed greens salad tossed with vinaigrette.

- Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: Use it as a base for a delicious spread of cheeses, cured meats, and olives.

Conclusion

This Hearty Herb and Olive Bread is a delightful addition to any dinner table, bringing warmth and flavor to your meals. With its unique blend of herbs and olives, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy the process of making this bread, and savor the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Happy baking!