Flavor-Packed Vegetable Focaccia

There’s something magical about a well-made focaccia. With its golden crust, airy interior, and a burst of flavor from fresh vegetable toppings, vegetable focaccia is nothing short of art you can eat. Whether you need a snack, a side, or even a meal centerpiece, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking.

Ingredients for Vegetable Focaccia

To make this masterpiece, gather fresh ingredients for the dough, toppings, and seasoning.

Dough Ingredients

The foundation of your focaccia is the dough. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 3 tbsp olive oil

Vegetable Toppings

Pick vibrant and flavorful vegetables to decorate your focaccia. Here’s a list of great options:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Bell peppers, sliced into rings or strips
• Red onion slices
• Black or green olives, pitted and sliced

Customize your toppings with what’s in season or sitting in your fridge.

Herbs and Seasoning

Aromatic herbs and seasonings take this dish to the next level:

• 2 tsp fresh rosemary leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake a gorgeous vegetable focaccia.

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour with salt.
2. Dissolve active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to your flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Allowing the Dough to Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours.
2. It should double in size. A warm, draft-free spot works best for this step.

Preparing the Toppings

1. While the dough rises, prep your vegetables.
2. Halve cherry tomatoes, slice peppers, onions, and olives.
3. Lightly season with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, press it into a greased baking sheet or pan. Use your fingers to dimple the surface.
3. Arrange the vegetables and sprinkle rosemary, thyme, and sea salt over the top.
4. Drizzle generously with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and vegetables are slightly caramelized.
6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Perfecting Your Focaccia

Baking focaccia is simple, but these tips will make all the difference.

Best Practices for Dough Consistency

• Look for a smooth, slightly sticky dough. If it feels dry, add a teaspoon of water.
• Don’t over-knead, or the bread could turn stiff.

Creative Variations

Want to shake things up? Try these topping combinations:

• Pesto and mozzarella: Spread pesto before baking and add mozzarella halfway through.
• Mediterranean flair: Sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and kalamata olives.
• Spicy kick: Add red chili flakes or jalapeño slices.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• To reheat, pop it in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or enjoy cold.

Enjoy Your Homemade Vegetable Focaccia

Homemade vegetable focaccia is more than bread—it’s a canvas for flavors and creativity. Serve it with a side of olive oil for dipping, pair it with your favorite salad, or make it the star at your next gathering. Now it’s your turn. Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and bring this recipe to life!