Anti-Inflammatory Rosemary & Garlic Skillet Bread (Healthy Artisan-Style Bread)

A Rustic, Healing Bread Made with Simple, Powerful Ingredients

There is something deeply comforting about freshly baked bread—especially when it’s infused with aromatic herbs, golden olive oil, and roasted garlic. This Anti-Inflammatory Rosemary & Garlic Skillet Bread is not just beautiful and delicious; it is thoughtfully designed to support a healthy, anti-inflammatory lifestyle.

Baked in a cast-iron skillet for a crisp crust and soft interior, this bread combines Mediterranean diet principles with traditional artisan baking. It’s perfect for anyone looking for clean eating recipes, anti-inflammatory foods, heart-healthy meals, or homemade comfort food without preservatives or artificial ingredients.

Whether you are managing chronic inflammation, cooking for family, or building content for a health-focused food blog, this recipe delivers both flavor and function.

Why This Bread Is Considered Anti-Inflammatory

Chronic inflammation has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, insulin resistance, autoimmune disorders, and digestive issues. The ingredients in this recipe were selected for their scientifically supported anti-inflammatory properties.

🌿 Rosemary

Rosemary is rich in rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, compounds known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. It also supports brain health and digestion.

🧄 Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a sulfur compound shown to lower inflammatory markers and support immune function. It has also been linked to improved cardiovascular health.

🫒 Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean anti-inflammatory diet. It contains oleocanthal, a compound that works similarly to ibuprofen in reducing inflammation.

🌾 Simple Flour Base

Using minimal, whole ingredients helps reduce exposure to inflammatory additives found in ultra-processed bread products.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour (or 50% whole wheat for added fiber)
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon honey or organic sugar
1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Flavor Additions

3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)

Topping

Extra rosemary sprigs
Coarse sea salt
Olive oil for brushing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water and honey (or sugar). Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your bread rises properly.

2. Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, olive oil, garlic, and chopped rosemary to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.

4. First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Shape & Prepare the Skillet

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a cast-iron skillet. Shape dough into a round loaf and place it in the skillet.

6. Score & Top

Score the top with a sharp knife, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with rosemary and coarse salt.

7. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

8. Cool & Serve

Let bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

Texture & Flavor Profile

Crust: Crisp, golden, and aromatic
Interior: Soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy
Flavor: Savory, herby, lightly garlicky with olive oil richness

This bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, roasted vegetables, and protein-rich meals.

Nutritional Benefits (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2–3g
Healthy Fats: 6g
Added Sugar: Minimal

Supports:

Heart health
Digestive wellness
Blood sugar balance
Reduced inflammation

Serving Suggestions

Dip in olive oil & balsamic vinegar
Serve alongside lentil soup or vegetable stew
Toast and top with avocado
Use for anti-inflammatory sandwiches

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Store at room temperature for 2 days (wrapped)
Refrigerate up to 5 days
Freeze sliced bread for up to 2 months
Reheat in oven for best texture

Frequently Asked Questions (High-Search Intent)

Is homemade bread healthier than store-bought bread?

Yes. Homemade bread avoids preservatives, refined oils, and additives that can contribute to inflammation.

Is garlic bread anti-inflammatory?

When made with olive oil, real garlic, and herbs—yes. Garlic and olive oil both have anti-inflammatory compounds.

Can this bread fit into a Mediterranean diet?

Absolutely. This recipe aligns closely with Mediterranean diet principles.

Is this recipe good for gut health?

Yes. Simple ingredients and olive oil support digestive health, especially compared to ultra-processed bread.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.

Does rosemary help inflammation?

Yes. Rosemary contains antioxidants that reduce inflammatory responses.

High-CPM SEO Keywords (Naturally Integrated)

Anti-inflammatory diet recipes
Mediterranean diet bread
Healthy homemade bread
Gut health recipes
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Clean eating comfort food
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Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Rosemary & Garlic Skillet Bread proves that healthy food can still be indulgent, rustic, and deeply satisfying. With its golden crust, healing herbs, and nourishing olive oil, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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