Name: Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Recipe-Quick & Delicious Bites
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 53 min
Yield: 1 large or 2 small flatbreads
Ingredients: ¾ cup warm tap water (approximately 110°F); 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1½ tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced into ¼ inch thick pieces; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, roughly chopped; ¼ cup black olives, pitted and halved; 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread is more than just a simple meal; it’s a passport to sun-drenched shores and vibrant flavors, all wrapped up in a delightfully convenient package. Who doesn’t adore a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly quick to whip up? We certainly do, and that’s precisely why this recipe has become a go-to in kitchens everywhere. What truly sets this Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread apart is its incredible versatility and the way it harmoniously blends fresh, zesty ingredients. Imagin extracte the tang of olives, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the creamy richness of feta, all nestled atop a perfectly crisp yet chewy base. It’s a delightful dance of textures and tastes that sings of summer, no matter the season. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this effortlessly elegant and utterly delicious creation!

Ingredients:

¾ cup warm tap water (approximately 110°F)
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1½ tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
1 teaspoon sugar
2¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
½ teaspoon salt
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced into ¼ inch thick pieces
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, roughly chopped
¼ cup black olives, pitted and halved
6 ounces feta cheese, crum extractbled
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Dough

This Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread starts with a simple, no-knead dough that’s incredibly forgiving and produces a wonderfully chewy crust. The warmth of the water is crucial for activating the yeast, so aim for that 110°F mark – too hot and you’ll kill the yeast, too cool and it won’t activate properly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ¾ cup of warm tap water and the 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is alive and ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly on the surface, resembling a frothy head on a non-alcoholic beer. This blooming process is a good indicator that your yeast is active and will result in a nicely risen flatbread.

Once the yeast has bloomed, whisk in the 1½ tablespoons of olive oil and the 1 teaspoon of sugar. The sugar acts as food for the yeast, further encouragin extractg its activity, while the olive oil contributes to the dough’s tenderness and flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2¼ cups of all-purpose flour and the ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a spatula until a shaggy gin extractgh begins to form. It might seem a bit sticky at this stage, and that’s perfectly normal. Resist the urge to add too much extra flour; a slightly sticky dough will yield a softer crust.

Resting and Shaping the Dough

Once the dough has come together, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let it rest in a warm place for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. During this time, the gluten in the flour will relax, making the dough easier to handle, and tgin extractyeast will begin to work its magic, creating small air pockets that contribute to the flatbread’s texture. You’ll notice the dough might puff up slightly, though it won’t double in size like a traditional bread dough. This is typical for a flatbread. After the resting period, gently punch down the dough to release any large air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. You can then divide it into two equal portions for two individual flatbreads, or use the whole batch for one large one.

For shaping, I find it easiest to gently press and stretch the dough with lightly floured hands rather than using a rolling pin, which can sometimes deflate the air bubbles. Start by pressing the dough into a rough circle or oval. Then, carefully stretch it outward, working from the center towards the edges. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch. If the dough springs back, cover it and let it rest for another 5-10 minutes; this allows the gluten to relax further, making it easier to stretch. You can also gently coax it into shape by turning it and stretching. If you’re making two flatbreads, shape each one individually. If using a baking sheet, you can shape the dough directly on the parchment paper for easier transfer. For a truly authentic Mediterranean feel, a slightly rustic, imperfect shape is perfectly acceptable!

Assembling and Baking the Flatbread

Now for the fun part – loading your Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread with delicious toppings! Before you start assembling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This higher temperature is key for achieving a crispy crust. If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will create a super hot surface for your flatbread, mimicking a professional pizza oven.

First, we’ll create a simple egg wash for a beautiful golden-brown finish. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 large egg and the 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture lightly over the surface of your shaped dough, right to the edges. This egg wash not only adds color but also helps the toppings adhere better. Next, evenly distribute the sliced mozzarella cheese over the entire surface of the flatbread. The mozzarella provides a creamy, melty base. Don’t be shy with it! Following the mozzarella, scatter the roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the halved black olives. These ingredients bring those classic Mediterranean flavors – the sweet, intense notes of the sun-dried tomatoes and the briny punch of the olives.

Firum extractly, crumble the 6 ounces of feta cheese over the top. Feta adds a delightful salty tang that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano evenly across the toppings. These herbs are essential for that Mediterranean aroma and taste. If you’re using the optional fresh parsley, save that for after baking as a vibrant garnish.

Baking to Perfection

Carefully transfer your assembled flatbread to the preheated oven. If you’re using a baking sheet, slide the parchment paper with the flatbread onto the hot baking sheet. If you have a pizza stone or steel, carefully slide the flatbread (with parchment paper or directly on a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal if you’re experienced) onto the hot surface. Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned in spots. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and the thickness of your flatbread. Keep an eye on it, especially towards the end of the baking time, to prevent burning.

Once it’s done, carefully remove the flatbread from the oven. If you’re using fresh parsley for garnish, sprinkle it over the hot flatbread immediately after removing it from the oven. This allows the heat to release its fragrant oils. Let the flatbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your delicious Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread!

Conclusion:

Congratulations on mastering the Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread! This recipe is incredibly versatile and has proven to be a delicious staple in my kitchen. The vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean come together beautifully on a crispy, yet chewy, flatbread base, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even an impressive appetizer. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings; this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary imagin extractation.

For serving suggestions, I love to pair the Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread with a fresh Greek salad or a light lentil soup. It’s also a wonderful addition to a mezze platter, alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and olives. When it comes to variations, the possibilities are endless! Try adding grilled halloumi cheese, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of za’atar for an extra layer of authentic flavor. You could also swap out the standard flatbread for whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.

I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread as much as I do. Remember, the best cooking comes from the heart, so have fun and savor every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread:

Can I make the flatbread dough from scratch?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses pre-made flatbread for ultimate ease, you can certainly make your own pizza or flatbread dough from scratch. Follow your favorite dough recipe and then top it with the Mediterranean ingredients as instructed.

What if I don’t have all the suggested toppings?

That’s the beauty of the Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread! Feel free to substitute or omit ingredients based on what you have available. Feta cheese can be swapped for goat cheese, Kalamata olives can be replaced with black olives, and cherry tomatoes can be used instead of sun-dried tomatoes. The key is the fresh, zesty flavor profile!

How can I make this a more substantial meal?

To make the Easy Mediterranean Style Flatbread a more filling meal, consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You could also serve it alongside a hearty salad with quinoa or lentils for added substance.