Name: Irresistible Focaccia with Herbs and Olives - A Delicious DIY Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 500 g white bread flour (Use high-protein flour for the best texture.); 7 g instant dried yeast (No need to bloom it first.); 12 g fine salt (Be careful not to let it touch the yeast directly.); 12 g caster sugar (Balances flavors and feeds the yeast.); 400-420 ml warm water (Must be warm to the touch.); 15 ml olive oil (For the dough); 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (To prevent sticking.); 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (Enhances aroma and flavor.); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (Finely chopped.); ½ cup black olives (Pitted.); sea salt flakes (Sprinkle generously.)

The unmistakable scent of freshly baked bread wafting through my home is a memory I cherish, reminiscent of family gatherings and lazy Sunday lunches. This Focaccia with Herbs and Olives not only captures that nostalgic aroma but invites everyone to come and gather around the kitchen. It all began one rainy afternoon when the need for comfort food hit, and I found myself in front of a bag of flour, the kitchen warm and welcoming.

What makes this focaccia particularly special is its delightful blend of rosemary and savory olives, making each bite a flavorful journey. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity—if you’ve been yearning for something homemade that breaks away from the fast-food monotony, this dish is your answer. Topped with sea salt flakes and kissed by warm olive oil, it’s a versatile companion for soups, salads, or even enjoyed on its own, inviting you to savor each moment spent in cooking.

Join me as I guide you through the process of creating this delicious, easy-to-make focaccia that will surely impress your friends and family. Let’s transform simple ingredients into a memorable experience!

Why is Focaccia with Herbs and Olives a Must-Try?

Irresistible taste: The combination of fresh rosemary and briny olives creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Effortlessly simple: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can succeed.
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a stand-alone snack, making it a hit at any meal.
Aromatically delightful: The enchanting aroma of baking focaccia is sure to draw your family and friends into the kitchen.
Crowd-pleasing: This recipe is bound to impress, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings and special occasions.

Elevate your home dining experience with this delicious and comforting focaccia!

Focaccia with Herbs and Olives Ingredients

• Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your delicious Focaccia with Herbs and Olives!

For the Dough
• 500 g (3 ½ cups) white bread flour – This is your base; use high-protein flour for the best texture.
• 7 g (2 teaspoons) instant dried yeast – This gives your focaccia the perfect rise without needing to bloom it first.
• 12 g (2 teaspoons) fine salt – Essential for flavor; be careful not to let it touch the yeast directly at first.
• 12 g (1 tablespoon) caster sugar – A little sweetness helps to balance flavors and feeds the yeast.
• 400-420 ml (1 ⅔ cups) warm water – Make sure it’s warm to the touch, as hot water can kill the yeast.
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) olive oil, for the dough – Adds richness and moisture to your focaccia.

For the Baking Tray
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil – A must for the pan to prevent sticking and add flavor to the crust.

For the Toppings
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, for the toppings – Drizzling on top enhances the aroma and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped – Offers an aromatic herbal note that pairs beautifully with olives.
• ½ cup black olives, pitted – Their briny flavor complements the sweetness of the bread wonderfully.
• sea salt flakes – Sprinkle generously for a delicious crunch and pop of flavor.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a delicious slice of Focaccia with Herbs and Olives that will fill your home with warmth and flavor!

How to Make Focaccia with Herbs and Olives

Combine ingredients: Measure the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar into the bowl of an electric stand mixer. Lightly mix the dry ingredients with the dough hook until fully blended.
Add wet ingredients: Measure the warm water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a small jug. Slowly pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Knead the dough: Turn on the mixer to low-medium speed, kneading the dough until all flour is combined, about 2 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
First rise: Cover the bowl of dough with a clean cloth and place it in a warm spot for 15 minutes to allow it to relax.
Stretch the dough: Wet your hands with warm water and gently stretch the dough from one edge to the center. Repeat with all four edges to encourage gluten development.
Second rise: Cover the bowl again and return it to the warm spot for another 15 minutes. Stretch again as before.
Third rise: Cover the dough one last time and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size and feels puffy.
Prepare the baking pan: Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil onto a non-stick baking pan (23 x 33 x 5 cm). Transfer the risen dough, folding the bottom third towards the center and then the top third.
Shape the dough: Turn the dough over with the seam side down and gently press it to fill the pan. Cover with a clean tea towel and let it rise for another 1 to 1.5 hours or until it fills the pan.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 220°C/430°F (without fan). Place a metal baking sheet on the middle shelf to heat up.
Add toppings: Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with finely chopped rosemary for flavor.
Create indents: Oil your hands and use your fingers to create indents in the dough, pushing it to fit the pan if necessary. Finish by generously sprinkling sea salt flakes on top.
Bake and cool: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the focaccia is lightly golden and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Optional: Serve with a side of olive oil for dipping.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Focaccia with Herbs and Olives

Room Temperature: Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, wrap the focaccia in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days, but note that refrigeration may dry it out slightly.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices of focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, preserving its flavor and texture.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover or frozen focaccia, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Make Ahead Options

These Focaccia with Herbs and Olives are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the kneading and rising steps, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This slow rise enhances the flavors beautifully. The shaped dough can also be prepped in advance and left to rise in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have hot, aromatic focaccia with minimal effort, just in time for your gathering!

Expert Tips for Focaccia with Herbs and Olives

Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is warm to the touch, as hot water can kill the yeast, preventing your focaccia from rising properly.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead until just combined; over-kneading can develop gluten too much, leading to a dense texture instead of a light, fluffy focaccia.
Perfect Rising Spots: Find a warm, draft-free spot for rising. If your home is cool, consider preheating your oven to a low temperature for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside.
Add Flavor Variety: Experiment with different herbs or toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or garlic, ensuring the focaccia stays delightful and fresh for everyone.
Check Doneness: Bake until golden and sounds hollow when tapped; this is your clue that the focaccia is perfectly done and ready to enjoy!

Embrace these tips for Focaccia with Herbs and Olives, and you’re sure to impress your family and friends with your baking skills!

Focaccia with Herbs and Olives Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful focaccia, inviting a world of flavors to your kitchen!

Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that’s just as delicious. Experiment with different blends to find your perfect match!
Herb Mix: Use a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, and basil for a fragrant twist. The combination will elevate the flavors and create a unique aromatic experience.
Cheesy Delight: Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking for a cheesy, bubbly crust that adds richness to every bite. The melted cheese will create a wonderful, savory layer you won’t forget.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the dough for a zesty kick, giving your focaccia an exciting heat that pairs perfectly with its savory notes.
Nutty Texture: Sprinkle a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before baking to introduce a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor complements the other toppings beautifully.
Sweet Accents: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking for a touch of sweetness that balances with the salty toppings. This unexpected twist will surprise your palate and make each bite memorable.
Mediterranean Mix: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers into the dough for a sun-soaked flavor that transports you to the Mediterranean coast with every bite.
Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the dough or roast garlic cloves to spread over the top pre-baking. The delicious aroma of garlic mingles harmoniously with the olive oil and herbs, making your focaccia unforgettable.

What to Serve with Focaccia with Herbs and Olives?

Warm, comforting aromas fill the kitchen as you dive into the delicious world of homemade focaccia.

Hearty Tomato Soup: The zesty flavor of tomato soup creates a delightful dip for your focaccia, adding a comforting and nostalgic touch to your meal.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh, crisp greens balanced with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, olive oil-scented bread, enhancing your dining experience.
Antipasto Platter: Serve with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated veggies for a festive touch that encourages sharing and savors Mediterranean flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized exterior and natural sweetness beautifully complement the salty, herbaceous focaccia, creating a well-rounded vegetarian option.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy, succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter add a touch of elegance that pairs perfectly with the herby, soft bread.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: This light, refreshing drink keeps your meal vibrant while cleansing the palate, allowing the focaccia’s flavors to shine.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a silky chocolate mousse, creating a delightful balance to the savory focaccia, perfect for a special occasion.

Focaccia with Herbs and Olives Recipe FAQs

What type of olive oil should I use for the focaccia?
I recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil for both the dough and toppings. It adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of your focaccia. If you like a more robust flavor, a flavored olive oil can also add a unique twist to your recipe!

How should I store leftover focaccia?
To keep your focaccia fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it’s particularly warm, you can wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. However, be mindful that refrigeration might dry it out, so enjoy it sooner rather than later!

Can I freeze focaccia with herbs and olives?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to save leftovers. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label your bag with the date, so you know when to enjoy them again!

What should I do if my focaccia dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to a few factors. First, ensure that your yeast is fresh and active—try dissolving it in warm water with a bit of sugar before mixing it with the other ingredients. If your home is cold, place the dough in a warm spot, perhaps near a heater or in a turned-off oven. Patience is key; give it enough time to rise, usually 1 to 1.5 hours.

Are there any dietary considerations for this focaccia recipe?
This recipe for Focaccia with Herbs and Olives is vegetarian-friendly and can be made vegan by simply ensuring that all toppings and additives are plant-based. For those with gluten sensitivities, you may explore gluten-free flour alternatives, though texture and flavor may vary. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially with pre-packaged items like olives.

How can I tell when my focaccia is done baking?
A telling sign of doneness is its golden color; look for a lightly golden top and a firm crust. Tap the bottom of the focaccia; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready to come out of the oven. Baking usually takes 15-20 minutes, so keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overbaking!