Olive Bread Recipe – Easy And Savory Mediterranean Bread

Olive Bread is a rustic, savory loaf that brings the rich and aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This artisan bread is packed with briny olives and a touch of olive oil, offering a soft, fluffy interior with a perfectly crisp crust. Whether served as an appetizer with a dip of olive oil and balsamic vinegar or as a side for soups and salads, this bread is a showstopper.

Easy to prepare and customizable with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, this recipe will elevate your bread-baking game. Enjoy the authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine with this hearty and flavorful olive bread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients:

• 300g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 180ml (3/4 cup) warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 100g (3.5 oz) pitted black or green olives, chopped
• Optional: 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Gently fold in chopped olives (and rosemary, if using) until evenly distributed.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Shape the dough into a round loaf or desired shape and place on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Olive Bread Tips:

1. Use Quality Olives: Opt for briny, flavorful olives like Kalamata or green Castelvetrano for the best taste.
2. Pat Olives Dry: Remove excess moisture from olives to prevent soggy bread.
3. Incorporate Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or oregano pair beautifully with olives.
4. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the olives into the dough to maintain their shape and prevent overworking.
5. Bake with Steam: Add a pan of water to the oven during baking for a crusty exterior.

Olive Bread Variations:

• Cheesy Olive Bread: Add shredded Parmesan or feta for a savory twist.
• Whole Wheat Olive Bread: Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat for a nutty flavor.
• Sourdough Bread: Use sourdough starter for tangy, artisanal bread.
• Spicy Olive Bread: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Mediterranean Olive Bread: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and garlic for extra Mediterranean flair.
• Stuffed Bread: Fill the loaf with a mixture of olives, cheese, and herbs for a hearty centerpiece.

More into sweet bread ? why not try our Banana Bread Recipe !