Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, transporting you straight to a quaint Italian bakery. With our "Live Well Italian Herb Bread" recipe, you can create a deliciously soft and herb-infused loaf that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're planning a cozy dinner or simply want to elevate your sandwich game, this bread is the perfect companion. Get ready to impress your taste buds and discover the joy of homemade bread—your culinary adventure starts here!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, measure out 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir gently to combine the liquids.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the warm water and olive oil mixture into the well.
- Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
- Once the dough has formed, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf by flattening it slightly and then rolling it tightly from one end to the other.
- Place the shaped loaf into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover it again with the towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until it has puffed up.
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the loaf has risen, you can optionally brush the top with a little olive oil for a golden crust. You may also sprinkle some additional Italian seasoning on top for added flavor.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy it fresh or toasted, perfect for serving with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or your favorite spread.
Tips
- Use Warm Water: Make sure your water is warm (around 110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold may not activate it properly.
- Knead Well: Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough after about 8-10 minutes of kneading.
- Let It Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This helps it double in size, which is essential for a light and airy loaf.
- Add Extra Flavor: For an even more flavorful crust, brush the top of the loaf with olive oil before baking and sprinkle additional Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it's ready to come out of the oven!
- Cool Completely: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents the inside from becoming gummy and ensures perfect slices.
- Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. Just reheat slices in the oven or toaster for a fresh taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
