Are you craving a taste of the sun-drenched Mediterranean? Imagine warm, crusty bread, bursting with the fresh flavors of herbs and olives, perfect for dipping in fragrant olive oil. This isn't just bread; it's a journey to the heart of healthy, delicious homemade cooking. These easy recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or a special weekend brunch, bringing the vibrant Mediterranean diet into your kitchen. Get ready to experience the best recipes that are both quick dinner ideas and healthy meals!
Rosemary and Olive Focaccia
This rosemary and olive focaccia is a delightful addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers incredible flavor and texture. Perfect for beginners looking for easy recipes and experienced cooks alike who appreciate a classic done right.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a tablespoon or two of flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the focaccia: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lightly oiled with olive oil. Gently stretch and spread the dough to fill the pan.
- Add toppings: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary and olives.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of olive oils – one mild and one with a more robust flavor profile.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Sun-dried tomatoes make a delicious addition to this focaccia.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for extra crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-4g
This recipe exemplifies delicious dishes that align perfectly with the Mediterranean diet, promoting healthy eating habits. Remember to adjust ingredient quantities based on your serving needs. Enjoy this simple and healthy meal! Explore more of our food recipes for other quick dinner ideas. We have a collection of the best recipes for healthy meals and easy recipes to simplify your cooking. Making homemade cooking enjoyable is our goal!