Olive Bread

If you’re looking for a rustic, bakery-style loaf that’s full of flavor and perfect for sharing, this Olive Bread is it! With a golden crust, chewy center, and briny bites of chopped olives in every slice, it’s the ultimate bread for pasta nights, cheese boards, or just dipping in olive oil. This no-knead recipe makes it simple to enjoy artisan-quality bread straight from your home oven—no mixer or special skills required.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-Knead Method – Minimal effort, maximum reward.
Big Flavor – Briny olives add rich, savory bites.
Crispy Crust, Soft Center – Perfect texture inside and out.
Freezer-Friendly – Bake now, enjoy later.
Customizable – Add herbs, cheese, or different olive varieties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup pitted olives, chopped (kalamata, green, or a mix)
• 1 tsp dried oregano or rosemary (optional)

Optional Toppings:

• Coarse sea salt
• Extra chopped olives
• Fresh rosemary sprigs

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Parchment paper
• Dutch oven with lid or cast iron pot
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
Fold in the chopped olives and herbs until well distributed.
Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours (overnight is best).

Step 2: Shape and Rest the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and hands.
Turn out the dough and gently shape it into a ball (don’t knead).
Place on a sheet of parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Place your Dutch oven with the lid on into the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
Let it heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.

Step 4: Bake the Bread
Using oven mitts, carefully remove the Dutch oven.
Transfer the dough on the parchment paper into the pot.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes.
Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Olive Bread
Use Bold Olives – Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives add the most flavor.
Let It Rest – Overnight rise develops better texture and flavor.
Don’t Overwork – Keep the dough soft and airy by handling it gently.
Crisp Crust – A Dutch oven creates the steam needed for a perfect artisan crust.
Flavor Twist – Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or parmesan for variety.

Serving Suggestions
Dipping – Serve with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Cheese Board – Pair with soft cheeses, figs, and honey.
Hearty Soups – Perfect for dunking in tomato basil, lentil, or minestrone.
Sandwiches – Use slices to make gourmet grilled cheese or pressed paninis.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temperature: Wrap loosely in foil or a bread bag and enjoy within 2–3 days.
Freezer: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to refresh the crust.
Toaster: Crisp slices individually for breakfast or snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes—replace up to half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier loaf.

2. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
Yes, dissolve it in the warm water first and let sit for 5–10 minutes before adding to the dry ingredients.

3. Can I skip the overnight rise?
A shorter 2–3 hour rise works, but overnight yields better flavor and structure.

4. What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
Bake on a sheet pan with an inverted oven-safe bowl or use a covered casserole dish.

5. Can I add cheese to the dough?
Absolutely! Fold in shredded parmesan, feta, or mozzarella with the olives.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Bread is the kind of homemade recipe that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your meals unforgettable. With its golden crust, soft interior, and bold olive flavor, it’s a loaf that deserves a spot on every table. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or slicing it for an afternoon snack, this bread is guaranteed to impress.

Bake a loaf this week and enjoy a warm, delicious slice of Mediterranean-inspired goodness!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight rise)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 1 of 12):
Calories: 185 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 340mg

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