Description
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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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
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1½ tsp salt
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1 tsp sugar
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1 tsp instant yeast
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1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 cup pitted olives, chopped (kalamata, green, or a mix)
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1 tsp dried oregano or rosemary (optional)
Optional Toppings:
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Coarse sea salt
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Extra chopped olives
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Fresh rosemary sprigs
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.
Notes
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.