Mediterranean Spinach & Feta Focaccia-Style Bread Recipe

 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 tsp sugar (or honey)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme leaves
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
• Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

‍ Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface for 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2 – Prepare the Spinach Topping

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add chopped spinach, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook until just wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 3 – Shape the Bread

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a baking sheet or a greased 9×13 pan.
3. Spread the dough evenly, pressing it out with your fingers.
4. Make small dimples across the surface with your fingertips (classic focaccia style).

Step 4 – Add Toppings

1. Spread the sautéed spinach evenly over the dough.
2. Sprinkle crumbled feta, sliced olives, rosemary/thyme, and dried oregano.
3. Drizzle generously with olive oil.

Step 5 – Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown on the edges and cooked through.
2. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with hummus, tzatziki, or olive tapenade.
• Pair with Mediterranean soups or grilled chicken/fish.
• Enjoy as a light vegetarian lunch with a side salad.

 Tips & Variations

• Cheese Lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan along with feta.
• Extra Mediterranean Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
• Make it Ahead: The dough can be prepared the night before and refrigerated.

✨ Result: Soft, fluffy focaccia topped with garlicky spinach, creamy feta, and fragrant herbs — a savory Mediterranean delight in every bite!

Would you like me to also write a quick no-yeast version (ready in under an hour) for busy days?