Rosemary Focaccia

Rosemary Focaccia Bread Tips

What do you serve with rosemary focaccia bread?

While delicious on its own as a snack, rosemary focaccia bread is also a great complement to salads such as this Italian Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. Focaccia also pairs excellently with soups.

What variations can I try for this focaccia recipe?

Try switching up the herbs on top of this focaccia bread by using dried oregano or basil. You can also top it with Parmesan or Romano cheese, or some chopped fresh or roasted garlic for a punch of flavor.
When it comes to actually baking the bread, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. If you go this route, skip the step of proofing the yeast in water with the sugar—instead, add the instant yeast and sugar along with the flour. Additionally, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour, but avoid handling and kneading the dough too much or the focaccia may become too tough. Bread flour will yield a chewier texture.

How is focaccia different from bread?

Focaccia is a type of Italian bread that has a chewy texture. Unlike most traditional bread loaves, you make focaccia on a sheet pan with lots of olive oil to ensure a flavorful, crisp crust. It is typically seasoned with herbs and sometimes cheese.

Research contributed by Mark Neufang, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant Parmesan Rosemary Focaccia: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese over each focaccia before baking. Rosemary Olive Focaccia: Prepare dough as directed, omitting sauteed onions. Knead as directed, adding 1/3 cup well-drained sliced ripe olives along with half rosemary. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese over each focaccia before baking.