Rustic Mediterranean Olive Bread – A Taste of Tradition

The scent of freshly baked bread filled my grandmother’s kitchen every Sunday. She would wake before dawn, kneading the dough with weathered hands that had perfected the art over decades. The warm aroma of olives, herbs, and golden crust wrapped around the house like a comforting embrace.

Her kitchen was more than a place to cook; it was where stories unfolded—where laughter mixed with the rhythmic sound of dough hitting the wooden counter. As a child, I would watch in awe, waiting eagerly for the first warm slice, drizzled with olive oil and dusted with sea salt.

That bread was more than food—it was a connection to generations past, a reminder of Mediterranean summers, and a testament to the beauty of simple, natural ingredients. Today, every time I bake a loaf of Rustic Mediterranean Olive Bread, I feel that same warmth, that same love, and I hope you do too.

What Makes Mediterranean Olive Bread Special?

This bread isn’t just about flour and yeast—it tells a story of sun-drenched olive groves, ancient baking traditions, and the unhurried lifestyle of the Mediterranean. The combination of briny olives, aromatic olive oil, and rustic texture makes it a staple in Greek, Italian, and Spanish cuisines.

The Role of Olives in Mediterranean Cuisine

Olives have been a cornerstone of Mediterranean diets for thousands of years. They add depth, a slight tang, and an earthy richness to bread. Their saltiness balances perfectly with the mild sweetness of the dough, creating an irresistible contrast of flavors.

There are many varieties of olives that can be used in this bread, including:

• Kalamata Olives – Deep purple, meaty, and slightly fruity
• Castelvetrano Olives – Mild, buttery, and less salty
• Manzanilla Olives – Briny with a classic green olive taste

Each variety brings something different, allowing for customization based on personal preference.

Why Olive Oil is the Secret Ingredient

Olive oil is more than just a fat—it’s liquid gold in Mediterranean cooking. It keeps the bread soft, enhances flavor, and provides health benefits. Extra virgin olive oil, with its slight peppery finish, is the best choice for a truly authentic taste.

Ingredients

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate the Olives: Gently knead the chopped olives and oregano (if using) into the dough until evenly distributed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second Rise: Cover the dough and let it rest for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy with olive oil or your favorite Mediterranean spread!

Nutritional Information

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to Enjoy This Bread

Mediterranean Olive Bread is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed in countless ways:

• Dipped in Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar – A simple yet elegant appetizer
• Paired with Cheese and Meats – Complements feta, manchego, prosciutto, or salami
• Alongside Soups and Stews – Perfect for soaking up broths and sauces
• As a Sandwich Base – Ideal for Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches with roasted vegetables, hummus, and goat cheese

Best Dishes to Pair With

This bread shines when served with classic Mediterranean dishes such as:

• Greek Salad – The salty olives in the bread enhance the fresh flavors of tomatoes and cucumbers
• Shakshuka – Perfect for dipping into the rich tomato and egg sauce
• Lentil Soup – The hearty texture of the bread makes it a great complement to this comforting dish

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of White Flour?

Yes, but it will change the texture. Whole wheat flour makes the bread denser and gives it a nuttier flavor. If using whole wheat, consider mixing it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter loaf.

2. How Do I Store Mediterranean Olive Bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To refresh, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

3. Can I Make This Bread Without a Stand Mixer?

Absolutely! Traditional Mediterranean bread is often made by hand. Kneading by hand takes a little more effort but results in a beautifully textured loaf.

4. Can I Add Other Ingredients?

Yes! This bread is highly adaptable. Try adding:

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – For a tangy sweetness
• Feta Cheese – To create a richer, saltier flavor
• Rosemary or Thyme – To enhance the aroma

5. Why Didn’t My Bread Rise Properly?

There are a few possible reasons:

• The yeast may be expired or inactive
• The water used was too hot or too cold, affecting yeast activation
• The dough was not given enough time to rise in a warm environment

Health Benefits of Mediterranean Olive Bread

This bread isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients.

• Rich in Healthy Fats – Thanks to olive oil and olives, this bread contains monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
• Good Source of Fiber – Especially when made with whole grain flour, it helps with digestion.
• No Artificial Preservatives – Unlike store-bought bread, homemade olive bread is free of unnecessary additives.

If you want a healthier version, consider reducing the salt or replacing some of the flour with whole wheat.

Tips for the Perfect Loaf

1. Use High-Quality Olives – Fresh, briny olives make all the difference.
2. Don’t Rush the Rising Time – Letting the dough rise fully develops flavor and texture.
3. Score the Dough Before Baking – This allows steam to escape and prevents cracking.
4. Use a Pizza Stone for a Crusty Finish – Baking on a hot stone mimics traditional brick ovens.
5. Experiment with Herbs and Spices – A touch of garlic powder, basil, or za’atar can elevate the flavor.

The Final Slice – A Bread Worth Sharing

There’s something deeply comforting about baking bread. It connects us to history, to family, and to the simple pleasure of creating something from scratch. Rustic Mediterranean Olive Bread is more than a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, traditions, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

Whether served at a family dinner, given as a heartfelt gift, or simply enjoyed with a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, this bread carries a warmth that goes beyond its ingredients. It’s a taste of the Mediterranean—one slice at a time.

Rustic Mediterranean Olive Bread – A Taste of Tradition

Print Recipe

This Rustic Mediterranean Olive Bread is a flavorful, homemade loaf infused with briny olives, aromatic olive oil, and a golden crust. With a chewy texture and rich Mediterranean essence, it’s perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving with cheese, or enjoying on its own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and packed with traditional flavors.

• Author: Amal
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• 2 hours:
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/3 cups (320 ml) warm water
• 4 3/4 cups (570 g) plain flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150 g) mixed olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate the Olives: Gently knead the chopped olives and oregano (if using) into the dough until evenly distributed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second Rise: Cover and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
9. Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy!

Notes

• Flour Variations: Substitute half the plain flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Olive Choices: Try Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or Manzanilla olives for different flavor profiles.
• Serving Tip: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for an authentic Mediterranean touch.