Description
Soft and flavorful Italian-style bread enriched with sweet sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for dipping, pairing with soups, or enjoying alone.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in the sun-dried tomatoes and basil, kneading until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- After rising, punch down the dough and shape into a loaf, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a nice crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Can substitute fresh basil with rosemary or thyme for different aromas.
Adding olives instead of sun-dried tomatoes provides a salty twist.
Use part whole wheat or bread flour for richer flavor and texture.
Store wrapped in a towel or bread box to keep crust crisp, stays fresh up to 2 days.
Freeze sliced bread for longer storage and toast directly from freezer.
Warm bread in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh.
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes preferred for softness and flavor; dried can be rehydrated.
Active dry yeast can be used if proofed beforehand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
