Bread with olives and cheese

Olive and cheese bread - a delicious recipe for special moments

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Imagine waking up on a cool morning, and the warm aroma of freshly baked bread fills your home. Olive and cheese bread is not just a delicious recipe, but also a nostalgic experience, a symbol of conviviality and the joy of sharing pleasant moments with loved ones. This bread is perfect for serving at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, alongside a fresh salad or as an appetizer at a festive meal. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 packet dry yeast (7 g)
- 270-300 ml warm water
- 25 ml olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar

For the filling:
- 150 g cheese
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 50 g pitted black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pumpkin seeds, sesame, and poppy seeds for decoration

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step will not only ensure a finer dough but will also allow air to enter the flour, making the bread fluffier. Add the dry yeast, salt, and sugar, mixing the dry ingredients well. The sugar will help activate the yeast, and the salt will provide a balanced flavor.

2. Forming the dough
Gradually pour the warm water into the flour mixture, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Continue kneading the dough until it becomes elastic and slightly sticky. It is important not to add too much flour, to keep the texture soft and fluffy. Finally, incorporate the olive oil, which will add extra flavor and richness to the dough.

3. Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 40-50 minutes. This process will allow the yeast to work its magic and the dough to double in volume.

4. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Slice the olives into thin rounds and grate the cheese using a coarse grater. These ingredients will add intense flavor to your bread.

5. Forming the bread
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on the work surface and turn out the dough. Divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first piece of dough, thick enough to support the filling, and place it in a rectangular baking dish lined with parchment paper. Add a uniform layer of olives, cheese, and grated parmesan.

6. Finalizing the bread
Roll out the second piece of dough and place it on top of the filling. Allow the bread to rise for another 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Before placing it in the oven, brush the surface with olive oil and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds, sesame, and poppy seeds for a crunchy and appealing look.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (180-200 degrees Celsius) and bake the bread for 30-40 minutes until it turns golden and crispy on top. The smell will be irresistible, and when you take the bread out of the oven, make sure to let it cool slightly before slicing.

Serving

Olive and cheese bread is served warm, cut into generous slices. It is perfect to accompany a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or a yogurt sauce with garlic. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a dry white wine.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as brie or feta, for a unique flavor. You can also add herbs like oregano or basil for an even more intense taste.
- Storage: If you don't consume the bread immediately, cover it with a thick towel or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it soft.
- Calories: A slice of olive and cheese bread contains about 200 calories, making it a delicious yet hearty choice.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use green olives?
Yes, green olives can be an excellent alternative, bringing a different flavor note.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can add roasted red peppers for a splash of color and flavor or even caramelized onions to enhance the aroma.

- How can I make gluten-free bread?
For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to also add a binding agent, such as psyllium fiber.

For a complete culinary experience, don't forget to share this recipe with your friends. Olive and cheese bread is not just a simple recipe, but also a perfect way to gather family and friends around the table. So, put on your chef's clothes and let's enjoy the joy of cooking!