Go Back
Ligurian Cherry Tomato and Olive Focaccia_001

Ligurian Cherry Tomato and Olive Focaccia

This Ligurian Cherry Tomato and Olive Focaccia recipe captures the essence of the Mediterranean coast with its juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and salty olives, all atop a golden, pillowy bread.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Kitchen towel

Ingredients
  

Dough

  • 2 1/4 cups warm water
  • 1 packet active dry yeast 7g or 2 1/4 tsp
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour more for dusting
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling

Topping

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp coarse sea salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Add flour, kosher salt, and 1/4 cup olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking sheet with olive oil.
  • Punch down the dough and stretch it out on the prepared baking sheet to your desired thickness.
  • Press cherry tomato halves and olive pieces into the dough. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper.
  • Let the dough rise for another 20 minutes.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
You can add other toppings such as sliced garlic or anchovies for a more complex flavor.
To store, wrap the focaccia in foil or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Keyword Italian Appetizer, Ligurian Cherry Tomato Focaccia, Mediterranean Bread, Olive Focaccia