The Best Homemade Italian Focaccia Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Italian focaccia recipe is a joy to make, bringing the aroma of fresh bread straight into your kitchen. With its golden crust and soft, pillowy center, you’ll love how simple yet impressive it turns out.
- Quick and easy: Perfect for beginners, with minimal steps and no fancy tools needed.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like rosemary, olives, or cherry tomatoes for a personal touch.
- Crowd-pleaser: A guaranteed hit at dinners, picnics, or just as a snack with olive oil and herbs.
Recipe
Focaccia is a classic Italian flatbread known for its soft, airy texture and rich olive oil flavor. This simple yet delicious recipe yields a golden, crispy crust with a tender interior, perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (350ml) warm water
- 2 tsp (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Press the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Dimple the dough with your fingers, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with flaky salt and rosemary.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add garlic or sun-dried tomatoes before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Rising time: 1-2 hours
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 8-10 slices
Nutrition
Homemade Italian focaccia provides a delicious mix of carbs, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying treat with balanced nutrition.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my focaccia with a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, it really complements the bread’s flavors. A fresh side salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing adds a nice balance to the meal. Trust me, these combos make every bite feel like a little Italian getaway.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
A good meal isn’t complete without the perfect drink to complement it, and focaccia’s rich, herby flavors deserve a wine that shines alongside them. I love pairing it with a crisp Pinot Grigio, as its light, citrusy notes balance the bread’s olive oil and herbs beautifully. If you prefer red, a Chianti’s earthy, cherry undertones work wonders without overwhelming the dish. For something fizzy, Prosecco adds a fun, bubbly touch that enhances the focaccia’s texture. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong—just pick something you enjoy! Wine isn’t just a drink; it’s part of the experience, making every bite even more memorable.
Side Salad Ideas
Simplicity shines when pairing a side salad with focaccia—it’s all about fresh, vibrant flavors that don’t compete with the bread’s richness. I love a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, and cherry tomatoes. The peppery greens balance the focaccia’s savory notes. A classic Caprese, with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, feels like a natural match. For something heartier, try roasted veggies over mixed greens with balsamic glaze. Even a simple cucumber and red onion salad with vinegar works. Just keep it light and bright—you want the focaccia to stay the star!
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