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Savor the flavors of Italy with this aromatic tomato and fresh herb focaccia.

This bread is a delightful combination of a soft, airy interior and a crispy crust, topped with sweet tomatoes and fragrant herbs.

Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or just to enjoy on its own, this focaccia is a versatile recipe that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with every bite.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced or 1012 cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture (10 minutes):
    In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
  2. Make the Dough (15 minutes + 1 hour for rising):
    In a large bowl, combine the flour and coarse salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  3. Shape and Second Rise (10 minutes + 20 minutes):
    After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a greased baking sheet. Stretch the dough into a rough rectangle or oval. Let it rise again, uncovered, for an additional 20 minutes.
  4. Preheat Oven (10 minutes):
    While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Add Toppings (5 minutes):
    Gently press your fingers into the dough to create dimples. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil over the top. Arrange the tomato slices and sprinkle with chopped rosemary, basil, sea salt, and black pepper.
  6. Bake (20-25 minutes):
    Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the tomatoes are slightly roasted.
  7. Serve (5 minutes):
    Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

This easy focaccia bread a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. For the best results, use high-quality olive oil and ripe tomatoes.

The fresh herbs can be adjusted based on your preferences or what’s available.

Remember, the key to perfect focaccia is a moist dough and a hot oven, ensuring that airy interior and crispy crust. Enjoy this delightful bread as a standalone snack, a complement to your meal, or as a base for more elaborate toppings.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition