Discover the art of simplicity with "Just Italian Bread," a timeless recipe that delivers a golden, crusty loaf with an irresistibly tender crumb. Made with just six pantry-friendly ingredients—flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and olive oil—this easy bread recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The step-by-step method includes kneading for the perfect texture and scoring the loaf for that signature rustic look. With a quick rise time and a rewarding aroma that fills your kitchen, this Italian bread is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it warm with olive oil and balsamic for dipping, alongside a hearty pasta dish, or use it to craft the ultimate sandwich. If you’re craving authentic homemade bread, this recipe is your go-to guide for a perfect bake every time.
In a small bowl, stir the lukewarm water and sugar together. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix the ingredients until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Lightly flour a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a long loaf or two smaller loaves. Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the loaf with 3-4 shallow diagonal cuts. Cover loosely with a towel and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Calories |
1746 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.2 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.9 g | 25% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4731 mg | 206% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 312.1 g | 113% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.3 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 44.0 g | 88% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 57 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 19.0 mg | 106% | |
| Potassium | 570 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.