Mediterranean Bread
A flavorful Mediterranean bread filled with sliced ripe and green stuffed olives, baked to golden perfection, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with cheese and dips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Beat together sugar and soft butter, then add salt, eggs, and yeast mixture.
- Beat in 2 cups of flour.
- Add remaining 2 cups of flour and mix with a spoon or hands until combined.
- Knead on a floured board and place in a greased bowl.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Drain well and pat dry 1 cup each of small ripe olives and green stuffed olives, then slice.
- Roll dough into a 14 x 16-inch rectangle.
- Scatter olives evenly over the dough and press them in.
- Roll the dough tightly lengthwise and seal seams and ends well.
- Place on a greased baking sheet and let rise again.
- Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds of your choice.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and active; it should bubble when dissolved in warm water. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. If you prefer, you can use sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead of olives for a different twist. Remember to let the dough rise in a warm place to achieve the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Bread is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with Laban-Cucumber-Yogurt Salad for a refreshing dip. Serve it alongside a hearty soup or salad, such as Eggplant And Cheese or Zucchini Saute With Basil(Like A Pesto), to create a satisfying meal. Slice it for sandwiches or toast it for a crunchy snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Mediterranean Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mediterranean Bread contains roughly 1119 calories, with 12g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1863mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different types of olives according to your taste. Black olives, kalamata olives, or even marinated varieties can add unique flavors to the bread. Just ensure they are pitted and sliced before adding them to the dough.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be because the yeast was not activated properly or the environment was too cold. Make sure to check the temperature of your water; it should be warm but not hot. If the dough hasn’t risen after an hour, try moving it to a warmer location or placing it in a slightly warmed oven.
Is it possible to make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, shape it and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This method can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).