Easy Skillet Olive Bread Without Kneading

Side DishReader rated

Easy Skillet Olive Bread Without Kneading

★★★★★ 4.7 (15 reviews)

This simple olive bread recipe is perfect for when you want fresh, homemade bread without the hassle of kneading. Ready in just one skillet, it’s a delicious and rustic treat that’s sure to impress.

◷45 minTotal Time

♜4Servings

▥MediumDifficulty

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Ingredients

4servings

2 cups lukewarm water (105 degrees F, 40 degrees C)1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast4 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, divided1 cup marinated olives (such as Star® Garlic & Basil) - drained, chopped, and herbs and garlic reserved1 teaspoon garlic powder coarse salt1 teaspoon dried parsley, or as needed

Instructions

Mix and Rise Dough

Start by mixing the water and yeast in a large bowl. Once it’s combined, add in 1 cup of flour and half a tablespoon of salt, then stir everything together with a wooden spoon. Toss in the olives, herbs you saved, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Gradually add the rest of the flour, about a cup at a time, stirring until the dough comes together and isn’t too sticky. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit somewhere warm for about an hour so the dough can rise.

Coat skillet and shape dough

Next, pour a tablespoon of oil into an 8-inch cast iron skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides. Lightly flour your hands, then take the dough out of the bowl and shape it into a round disc right in the skillet. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest for another 30 minutes.

Preheat and Prepare Dough

While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After the dough has had its final rest, drizzle the remaining oil over the top, then sprinkle with a bit of salt and some fresh parsley. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the bread to help it bake evenly.

Bake Until Golden

Pop the skillet in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. When it’s done, take the bread out and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for around 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bread is wonderfully soft with a crispy crust, and the olives add a delightful burst of flavor. It comes together quickly since there’s no need to knead the dough. Perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this bread warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a spread of butter. It pairs well with soups, salads, or as a side for Mediterranean dishes. It also makes a great base for open-faced sandwiches.

Storage Tips

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it, then toast slices as needed to refresh.