Why You’ll Love This Olive Bread Recipe
One bite of this olive bread and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen.
The moment I pull it from the oven, the aroma wraps around me like a warm hug. Its golden crust is inviting, and the soft, flavorful interior is packed with savory olives and crunchy walnuts.
It’s versatile too! Whether I’m serving it as a side dish, pairing it with soups, or enjoying it with cheese, it never disappoints.
This bread has a unique charm that makes every meal feel special. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Olive Bread
When it comes to making olive bread, the ingredients are simple yet full of flavor. You’ll find that each component plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture.
It’s like a little culinary symphony in your mixing bowl, where the crunch of walnuts meets the briny goodness of olives, all wrapped up in a soft bread that begs to be shared (or devoured in one sitting, no judgment here).
Let’s explore what you need to whip up this delightful treat.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 1/2 cups flour, sifted
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup stuffed green olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped pimiento
Now, a little word of advice about these ingredients: don’t skimp on the quality of your olives. I mean, sure, you could buy whatever’s on sale, but trust me, the flavor really shines through when you use good olives.
The same goes for the walnuts—freshly chopped ones will give you that wonderful crunch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try different types of olives or nuts to customize the bread to your taste.
Who knows, you might just stumble upon your new favorite combination. Just remember, this bread is all about those delightful bursts of flavor, so choose wisely!
How to Make Olive Bread
Making olive bread is like starting a little culinary adventure, and trust me, it’s easier than it sounds. First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F. Your kitchen will start to feel warm and inviting, a perfect backdrop for the deliciousness that’s about to unfold.
Grab a large mixing bowl, and sift together 2 1/2 cups of flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/3 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure to really sift that flour; it’s like giving your bread a gentle shower to make it light and fluffy.
Once that’s done, it’s time to add in the wet ingredients. Pour in 1 beaten egg and 1 cup of milk. Now, here’s where things get a little messy—stir it all together just until it’s moistened. You don’t want to overdo it; a few lumps are totally okay. Think of it as your bread getting cozy.
After that, fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts, 1 cup of sliced stuffed green olives, and 2 tablespoons of chopped pimiento. Oh, the flavor explosion waiting to happen! It’s like a party in the bowl, and you’re the VIP.
Now, pour this delightful mixture into a well-oiled round baking dish. I usually take a moment to admire the colorful blend of ingredients before it goes into the oven. Bake it for about 45 minutes, but keep an eye on it. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown and pass the toothpick test.
Once it’s done, let it cool for about 10 minutes—if you can resist the temptation to dive right in. Then, turn it out onto a cake rack, slice it into quarters, and then slice each quarter into 4 or 5 pieces.
There you have it, olive bread that’s just begging to be devoured. And trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one piece. Enjoy!
Olive Bread Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your olive bread, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For a different flavor, switch out the green olives for kalamata or even sun-dried tomatoes. I’ve also enjoyed adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
If you want a nuttier texture, substitute walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts. You can even replace milk with buttermilk for a tangy kick.
Finally, experiment with different cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, to elevate the taste. These changes can make your olive bread unique and delicious every time!
Additional Tips & Notes
Exploring substitutions and variations can really enhance your olive bread experience.
For a twist, try adding feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap the flour for a gluten-free blend.
I recommend using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the taste. Remember, letting the dough rest before baking can improve texture too.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary, so check for a golden crust.
Finally, olive bread pairs beautifully with soups or salads, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with your creations!