Description
This Tomato Basil Focaccia is a simple, yet flavorful bread that combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and a slightly crispy crust. Perfect as an accompaniment to meals or enjoyed as a snack, this easy-to-make loaf will elevate any dining experience with its aromatic ingredients and soft texture.
Ingredients
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or Roma tomatoes), halved
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Coarse sea salt (for topping)
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. -
Prepare the Dough:
Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Gradually add the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Add more flour if needed, but avoid overworking the dough. -
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size. -
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. -
Shape the Focaccia:
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto the prepared pan. Press it out to fit the pan, and use your fingers to dimple the dough. -
Add the Toppings:
Drizzle olive oil over the dough, then top with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced garlic, basil leaves, coarse sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. -
Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy on the edges. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Flavor: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough for a more herby flavor.
- Crispier Focaccia: Use a preheated pizza stone or cast-iron pan for a crispier crust.
- Make-Ahead: The dough can be refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg