Tomato Basil Bread: A Rustic No-Fail Recipe

Imagine the incredible aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, a warm and inviting scent that promises something truly delicious. Now, imagine that bread is a beautiful artisan-style loaf, with a crisp, golden crust and a soft, airy crumb bursting with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. This is the magic of our rustic Tomato Basil Bread recipe. We’ve crafted a straightforward, no-fail guide that empowers you, the enthusiastic home cook, to create a bakery-quality savory bread right in your own kitchen. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your table, ready to be shared with family and friends.

Why This Tomato Basil Bread Recipe Works

This isn’t just another bread recipe; it’s a gateway to creating impressive, flavorful loaves with minimal fuss. The beauty of this Tomato Basil Bread lies in its simplicity. We use basic ingredients and a streamlined process that removes the intimidation factor often associated with bread-making. The result is a consistently delicious bread that’s perfect for dipping in olive oil, serving alongside a hearty stew like this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Beef Stew, or enjoying all on its own.

The Key Ingredients for Perfect Flavor

The secret to an unforgettable bread is always in the quality of its ingredients. For this recipe, we’re focusing on a classic combination where freshness is paramount.

Choosing Your Tomatoes: Fresh vs. Sun-Dried

While fresh, diced Roma tomatoes lend a wonderful moisture and subtle sweetness, sun-dried tomatoes offer a more intense, concentrated flavor. For a robust and chewy texture, we recommend using finely chopped, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Be sure to drain them well before incorporating them into the dough.

Fresh Basil is a Must

There is no substitute for the aromatic, slightly peppery bite of fresh basil. Dried basil simply can’t compete. Chiffonade (thinly slice) the leaves to release their essential oils and ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating fragrant pockets of flavor in every slice.

The Right Flour for the Job

All-purpose flour provides a reliable and tender crumb, making it a great choice for this recipe. However, if you prefer a chewier, more rustic texture, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour, which has a higher protein content.

How to Make Tomato Basil Bread Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect loaf. We’ll guide you through activating the yeast, mixing the dough, and getting that perfect golden-brown crust.

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F/43°C), active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This proves your yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and garlic powder.
3. Mix the Dough: Pour the flour mixture into the yeast mixture. Add the drained, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil. Mix with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead to Perfection: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should spring back when you poke it.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down the dough and shape it into your desired loaf form (round or oval). Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise again for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, you can brush the top of the loaf with a little olive oil. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool Down: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This is crucial for the internal structure to set.

Pro Tips for Artisan-Quality Bread

A few simple tricks can elevate your bread from good to great. First, don’t rush the rising process; a slow, steady rise develops better flavor. Second, for a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of hot water on the bottom rack of your oven. The steam created helps the bread achieve a beautiful, crunchy exterior. Finally, for a beautiful finish, try this butter-drenched technique on a different baked good or simply brush the top of this loaf with melted butter right after it comes out of the oven.

Delicious Variations to Try

While this Tomato Basil Bread is fantastic as is, it’s also a wonderful canvas for other flavors. Consider folding in a half-cup of grated Parmesan or small cubes of mozzarella cheese for a cheesy pull-apart version. For a bit of a kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients. You could even use this dough as a base for making savory rolls, perfect for pairing with a main course like our Cowboy Butter Chicken.

Storing Your Homemade Bread

To keep your bread fresh, store it at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag for up to 3 days. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as that can cause it to go stale faster. For longer storage, you can slice the loaf completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

[faq_section]

Your New Favorite Savory Bread Recipe

This Tomato Basil Bread recipe is more than just food; it’s an experience. The process of creating something so delicious from scratch is incredibly rewarding. We know this rustic, flavorful loaf will become a staple in your home. If you bake it and love it, please share your creations and tag us on Pinterest. We can’t wait to see your beautiful bread!

Tomato Basil Bread Recipe

FL Recipes

Tomato Basil Bread: A Rustic No-Fail Recipe

This rustic Tomato Basil Bread recipe is incredibly easy and packed with the fresh flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Create a perfect artisan loaf with a crisp crust and soft crumb.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe WhatsApp

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 185

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1.5 cups warm water about 110°F or 43°C
• 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 standard packet
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes drained and finely chopped
• 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped or chiffonade
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

• 1 Large Mixing Bowl
• 1 Baking Sheet
• 1 Wire Cooling Rack

Method

 

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Combine Ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the flour, salt, garlic powder, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil. Mix with a spatula until a cohesive, shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springs back when poked.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape and Second Rise: Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Cool: Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This allows the crumb to set properly.

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcalProtein: 5gFat: 4gFiber: 2g

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the dough.
Ensure your sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained to avoid adding excess oil to the dough.
Let the bread cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing for the best texture.

Keyword artisan bread,homemade bread,savory bread,tomato basil bread

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Pin Recipe