Few things beat the heavenly aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy. This bread is not only simple to make but also incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to casual gatherings. Its crispy crust and soft, airy interior are elevated by the rich taste of garlic and the savory punch of Parmesan cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With no need for extensive kneading, this recipe simplifies your baking process.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a base for sandwiches.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering flavor that is hard to resist.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Sharing: This focaccia is great for parties or gatherings, as it can be cut into various shapes and sizes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you embark on creating this delicious Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish or sheet pan (9×13 inches)
- Small saucepan
- Plastic wrap
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining your ingredients without spills.
- Baking dish or sheet pan: Choosing the right size ensures even baking and perfect texture.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
For the Topping
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Additional olive oil for greasing
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
- Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
Step 1: Combine the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Stir in the olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to reach the edges. Allow it to rest for another 30 minutes while you prepare the topping.
Step 3: Make Garlic Oil
In a small saucepan over low heat, add olive oil along with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook just until fragrant; avoid browning the garlic. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Press deep dimples into the dough using your fingers. Drizzle the prepared garlic oil evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs if desired, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Step 5: Bake
Place in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown on top. Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve
Cut into squares or strips and serve warm. Watch as this delightful Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread quickly disappears!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is not only delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Here are some creative ways to serve this savory bread, enhancing your dining experience.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm slices alongside a selection of dips like pesto or marinara for a tasty start to any meal.
With Soup
- Enjoy it with a hearty bowl of tomato soup or minestrone. The focaccia complements the flavors and adds a satisfying texture.
As a Sandwich Base
- Use it as a base for sandwiches; layer your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies for a delightful lunch option.
With Salad
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal. The focaccia adds substance and flavor to your greens.
As a Snack
- Slice it into strips for an easy snack. Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
For Brunch
- Serve alongside eggs or frittatas. Its savory notes make it a great addition to any brunch spread.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
To achieve the perfect Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese deliver maximum flavor.
Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop gluten, resulting in a better texture.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes along with Parmesan for added taste.
Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so check the bread for doneness slightly earlier than suggested.
Drizzle with flavored oils: Enhance the garlic oil with herbs or spices for an aromatic finish.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to complement your meal.
Caesar Salad: This classic salad’s creamy dressing and crunchy croutons pair perfectly with the bread’s soft texture.
Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta brings bright flavors that balance the richness of the focaccia.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide color and nutrition, making them an excellent side dish choice.
Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with seasonal vegetables enhances your meal’s overall appeal.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The savory shrimp dish echoes the garlic notes in the focaccia, creating harmony on your plate.
Creamy Tomato Soup: This comforting soup is ideal for dipping pieces of focaccia, making every bite delightful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold water – Cold water can slow down yeast activation. Always use warm water around 110°F to ensure proper dough rise.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Inaccurate measurements can lead to poor texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the resting time – Patience is key! Allow the dough to rest and rise as instructed for the best flavor and texture.
- Overbaking the bread – Keep an eye on the color. Baking too long can dry it out. Remove it when golden brown for perfect results.
- Neglecting to grease the pan – A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Generously coat your baking dish with olive oil before adding the dough.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- The bread can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat slices for 20-30 seconds on medium power, but this may make it chewy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread:
Can I add other toppings to Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy?
Yes! Feel free to customize by adding olives, sundried tomatoes, or different herbs for added flavor.
How do I know if my yeast is active?
To test yeast, mix it with warm water and sugar. If it bubbles within 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! This Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread recipe is easy and forgiving, making it perfect for novice bakers.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Its comforting aroma and taste make it a favorite at any meal. You can easily customize it with different toppings or herbs. Try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!
Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread : Savory & Easy
Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread: Savory & Easy. This delightful homemade bread brings together a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, enhanced by the robust flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings, this focaccia is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as an appetizer, alongside soups and salads, or use it as a base for delicious sandwiches. With customizable toppings and easy preparation steps, you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Try this Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread and elevate your meal experience today!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dough)
- 1 ¾ cups warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for topping)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Stir in olive oil and warm water until a sticky dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and stretch it to fill the edges. Rest for another 30 minutes.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and salt until fragrant; avoid browning the garlic.
- Press dimples into the dough with your fingers, drizzle garlic oil on top, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
