Rustic Rosemary Focaccia Bread (Anti-Inflammatory, Heart-Healthy Artisan Recipe)
📖 Description
This Rustic Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a golden, olive-oil infused Italian artisan loaf with a crisp crust and soft, airy interior. Made with extra virgin olive oil and fresh rosemary, this Mediterranean-inspired bread offers natural anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to its antioxidant-rich herbs and healthy fats.
Perfect for clean eating, heart-healthy diets, and wholesome homemade baking, this focaccia delivers bakery-quality results with simple ingredients.
🥖 Full Recipe
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
Dry Ingredients
4 cups organic all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1½ tsp sea salt
Wet Ingredients
1¾ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (anti-inflammatory healthy fat)
1 tbsp raw honey (optional, natural sweetener)
Toppings
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1–2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
½ tsp flaky sea salt
Optional: minced garlic, cracked black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Activate Yeast
In a bowl, mix warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Make Dough
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until combined. Knead for 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes in stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
3️⃣ First Rise
Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
4️⃣ Shape & Second Rise
Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently stretch into a rustic oval or rectangle (about 1 inch thick).
Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
5️⃣ Dimple & Top
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Press fingertips into dough to create dimples. Drizzle olive oil generously. Sprinkle rosemary and flaky salt.
6️⃣ Bake
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool slightly before slicing.
🌿 Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Rich in polyphenols & heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Rosemary – Contains rosmarinic acid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Garlic (optional) – Supports immune health
Raw Honey – Natural antimicrobial benefits
This Mediterranean diet staple supports cardiovascular wellness and overall inflammation reduction.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with balsamic vinegar and olive oil dip
Pair with anti-inflammatory soups (lentil, tomato basil)
Use for gourmet sandwiches (grilled vegetables, turkey, hummus)
Serve alongside fresh salads with lemon vinaigrette
Toast leftovers for healthy breakfast avocado toast
🔄 Variations
🌾 Whole Wheat Focaccia
Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
🧄 Garlic Herb Focaccia
Add roasted garlic and thyme for deeper flavor.
🧀 Mediterranean Focaccia
Top with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta.
🌱 Gluten-Free Option
Use a high-quality gluten-free baking blend.
🥑 Keto-Inspired Version
Substitute with almond flour blend (texture will differ).
❓ Related Questions
Is focaccia healthier than regular bread?
Yes, when made with extra virgin olive oil and natural ingredients, it offers healthier fats and fewer additives than commercial bread.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes — simply omit honey or substitute maple syrup.
How do I store focaccia?
Store in airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Why is my focaccia dense?
Likely causes: inactive yeast, under-proofing, or too much flour.
📊 Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Slice)
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1–2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Values are approximate.
🧠 Pro Baking Tips
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor
Don’t skip dimpling — it creates signature texture
Let dough rise fully for airy structure
Sprinkle rosemary under and over olive oil for depth
💭 Final Thoughts
This Rustic Rosemary Focaccia Bread is a premium artisan, heart-healthy, Mediterranean-style recipe that combines clean ingredients with powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. Perfect for home bakers seeking wholesome comfort food with gourmet appeal.
