Focaccia with Tomatoes: A Classic Italian Delight
Overview
Focaccia with tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. With a cooking time of just 20 minutes and a preparation time of 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delightful meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is both easy to follow and rewarding in its taste.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 62.4
Keywords: Cheese, Vegetable, European, < 30 Mins, Oven, Easy
Category: Breads
Ingredients
The ingredient list for this focaccia recipe is concise yet effective, bringing together classic flavors that complement each other beautifully:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 1/2 plum tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, grated
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 62.4
- Fat Content: 5.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 1.5mg
- Sodium Content: 221.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 3.5g
- Fiber Content: 0.7g
- Sugar Content: 1.4g
- Protein Content: 1.2g
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- Roll out your dough onto a greased baking sheet. You can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch if you prefer.
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Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and dried oregano. This mixture will infuse the focaccia with a rich, aromatic flavor.
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Spread the Mixture:
- Evenly spread the oil and garlic mixture over the rolled-out dough, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will be the base layer that enhances the taste of the focaccia.
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Add the Vegetables:
- Arrange the thinly sliced plum tomatoes and onions on top of the dough. The tomatoes add a juicy sweetness while the onions bring a subtle sharpness that complements the bread.
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Sprinkle the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the tomatoes and onions. This will melt during baking, adding a deliciously savory and slightly crispy finish.
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Bake:
- Bake the focaccia in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm to fully appreciate the melded flavors and textures.
Tips and Variations
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme. Fresh herbs can also be used for a more vibrant flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While parmesan cheese is classic, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a different taste experience.
- Additional Toppings: Consider adding olives, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for more variety and complexity.
- Dough Thickness: Depending on your preference, you can roll the dough thinner for a crispier focaccia or leave it thicker for a more bread-like texture.
Cooking Techniques
- Dough Rolling: For best results, roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking. Use a rolling pin and flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Garlic Preparation: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it spreads well in the oil mixture and doesn’t burn during baking.
- Even Topping Distribution: Distribute the toppings evenly to ensure every bite has a balanced flavor profile.
History and Background
Focaccia is a traditional Italian flatbread that dates back to ancient times, likely originating with the Etruscans or ancient Greeks before becoming a staple in Italian cuisine. The word “focaccia” derives from the Latin “focus,” meaning “hearth,” reflecting its original method of preparation over an open flame.
The addition of tomatoes and other toppings evolved over time, especially with the introduction of the tomato to Europe from the New World in the 16th century. Modern focaccia can vary greatly in toppings and flavors, from simple herb-infused versions to more complex renditions with various cheeses and vegetables.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve your focaccia with a fresh green salad, a bowl of minestrone soup, or a selection of Italian cured meats and cheeses.
- Beverages: Pair it with a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a robust red like Chianti. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a classic Italian soda.
- Occasions: This focaccia is versatile enough for casual lunches, picnics, or as a starter for a more formal Italian dinner.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before rolling it out and baking.
2. What can I use if I don’t have plum tomatoes?
You can substitute plum tomatoes with cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or any other variety you have on hand. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to prevent them from making the focaccia soggy.
3. How do I store leftover focaccia?
Store any leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
4. Can I freeze focaccia?
Yes, focaccia can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator and then warm it in the oven.
5. How can I make my focaccia crispier?
To achieve a crispier crust, bake the focaccia on a preheated pizza stone or baking steel. You can also brush the dough with a bit more olive oil before baking.
Final Thoughts
Focaccia with tomatoes is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The combination of fresh tomatoes, savory parmesan, and aromatic garlic and oregano atop a golden, crispy crust makes this bread a beloved choice for many. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
Embrace the joy of baking and the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with this delightful focaccia recipe. Bon appétit!
