Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. It’s a sensory experience that brings warmth and comfort, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread that perfectly balances the herbaceous notes of rosemary with the crunch of flaky sea salt. This bread is not only delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with soups, spreads, or simply a drizzle of olive oil. Let’s dive into the details of this wonderful recipe!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread stand out is its unique flavor profile and rustic texture. The combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour gives it a hearty yet soft crumb, while the fresh rosemary infuses the loaf with a fragrant herbal note. Topping it with flaky sea salt adds the perfect finishing touch, enhancing the overall taste experience. This bread is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any meal, whether it’s breakfast with some butter or as a side with your favorite Creamy Tomato Basil Soup.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delectable bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.25-ounce envelope active dry yeast
• 1 cup lukewarm water (105 to 115 degrees F)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornmeal
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you start mixing and kneading, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Kitchen towel: For covering the dough while it rises.
• Baking sheet: To place the bread on for baking.
• Parchment paper: Optional, for easy cleanup.
• Oven: Preheated to the right temperature for baking.

Cook Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread Like This

Now, let’s get our hands doughy! Follow these steps to create your Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with lukewarm water. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to help your bread rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the finely chopped rosemary and mix everything together until a rough dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

Step 5: First Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Once the dough has risen, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. You can also make a few shallow slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife for a decorative touch.

Step 10: Bake

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice it and serve with your favorite spread or alongside a comforting bowl of Lemon Rosemary Chicken Soup.

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make this Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread a bit healthier, consider these options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Use 100% whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a denser, more nutritious loaf.
• Herbs: Add additional herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
• Olive Oil: Drizzle a little olive oil into the dough for added richness and healthy fats.
• Reduce Salt: Cut down on the flaky sea salt topping if watching sodium intake.

If You’re Curious

This Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a journey of flavors and textures. The rosemary not only adds a delightful aroma but also contributes to the overall health benefits of the bread. Rosemary is known for its antioxidant properties and can aid digestion. Enjoying this bread fresh from the oven is a simple pleasure that can elevate any meal.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the bread at room temperature and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crusty exterior.

Reader Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in a 1:1 ratio. There’s no need to activate instant yeast in water; simply mix it with the dry ingredients.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

If fresh rosemary isn’t available, you can use dried rosemary. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary for this recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Can I add other ingredients, like cheese or olives?

Absolutely! Adding ingredients like crumbled feta, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes can create a delicious twist on this classic bread.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 190-200 degrees F.

More from the Kitchen

• Dinner Rolls With Butter
• Lemon Rosemary Chicken Soup
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Let’s Eat

There you have it! A step-by-step guide to making your own Rosemary Sea Salt Italian Bread. With its inviting aroma and delightful flavor, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of baking. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something wonderful together!