Black Olive Spider Focaccia Recipe

If you’re looking to add a fun twist to your bread-baking routine, this Black Olive Spider Focaccia is not only delicious but also a delightful conversation starter. I made this for a recent gathering, and it was such a hit! Everyone was captivated by the unique spider design and couldn’t resist tearing into the soft, flavorful bread. The combination of tangy black olives and aromatic herbs creates a wonderful flavor that pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack. Plus, it’s an impressive way to elevate your bread game without requiring advanced skills. Let’s dive into this fun and tasty recipe!

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup olive oil (for drizzling)
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Focaccia: Once risen, gently punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Using your fingers, press and stretch the dough into a rectangular shape about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Create the Spider Design: Use the sliced black olives to form a spider shape on the dough. Create a round body and add several legs by placing additional olive slices extending outwards.
7. Add the Toppings: Drizzle the olive oil over the focaccia, sprinkle with garlic powder, rosemary, and coarse sea salt.
8. Second Rise: Cover the focaccia with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the Oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
10. Bake: Once the focaccia has risen, bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 210
• Total fat: 10g
• Saturated fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rising time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
• Bake time: 25 minutes
• Total time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve

• As an appetizer: Slice into squares and serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• With soup: This focaccia pairs wonderfully with a bowl of minestrone or tomato soup.
• For a picnic: Pack it with some cheese and cured meats for a lovely outdoor meal.
• As a sandwich base: Use it to create delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
• With salads: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light and tasty meal.

Additional Tips

1. Experiment with olives: Feel free to mix in green olives or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
2. Customize the herbs: Add other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
3. Let it rest: Allow the focaccia to rest for a few minutes after baking for better slicing.
4. Use a baking stone: For extra crispy crust, bake on a preheated baking stone or steel.
5. Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Focaccia: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Sweet Focaccia: Omit the olives and rosemary, then top with sliced fruits and a drizzle of honey for a sweet version.
• Herbed Focaccia: Add a variety of herbs into the dough for an aromatic flavor throughout.
• Spicy Focaccia: Mix in red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Nutty Focaccia: Add toasted nuts, like pine nuts or walnuts, on top for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Mediterranean salad for a light and fresh meal.
• Serve alongside a charcuterie board with assorted cheeses and cured meats.
• Enjoy with a bowl of hummus or a yogurt-based dip for a delightful appetizer.
• Slice and use as a base for bruschetta with tomatoes and basil.
• For brunch, serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Let the focaccia cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its fresh-baked texture.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is essential for shaping the focaccia.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for mixing and rising the dough.
• Kitchen towel: For covering the dough while it rises.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Silicone spatula: Helpful for mixing and transferring the dough.

FAQ

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture may be slightly denser.

2. What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary works fine! Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

3. Can I make this focaccia ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough a day in advance, let it rise, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

4. What’s the best way to store leftover focaccia?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

5. Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions, or different types of cheese for a personal touch.

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Closing Note

This Black Olive Spider Focaccia is not just a feast for the taste buds, but a visual delight as well. Perfect for gatherings, it’s an easy yet impressive addition to your table. Whether you’re serving it with a meal or enjoying it on its own, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful creation with your loved ones!