Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread: A Flavorful Journey on Every Slice!

Transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with our delectable Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread recipe! This irresistible dish features a crispy yet tender crust topped with a savory blend of mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends, this flatbread promises to delight your senses and leave you craving for more.

In our kitchen, Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread has become a cherished favorite, loved by both family and friends alike. I still recall the first time I made this recipe, inspired by our travels to the Mediterranean coast. As the aroma of freshly baked flatbread filled the air, I couldn’t wait to dig into the flavorful toppings, each bite reminiscent of the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean cuisine. Since then, it has become a go-to dish for impromptu gatherings and lazy weekends, always bringing smiles and satisfaction to those who indulge in its deliciousness.

Why This Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread Shines:

• Mediterranean-Inspired Flavors: Experience the authentic taste of the Mediterranean with a harmonious blend of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, accented with fragrant basil, oregano, and parsley.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Whether served as a mouthwatering appetizer, a hearty snack, or a flavorful main course, this flatbread is sure to impress guests and satisfy cravings, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Simple and Homemade: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can recreate the magic of Mediterranean cuisine right in your own kitchen, adding a touch of homemade warmth and flavor to every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3/4 cup (177 ml) warm tap water, 110 degrees F
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (22 ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 1/4 cups (270 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pizza:

• 8 ounces (227 grams) mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 1/2 cup (75 grams) sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup (37 grams) black olives
• 6 ounces (170 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) water
• Non-stick cooking spray

Directions: For the Dough:

1. Begin by filling a metal mixing bowl with hot tap water and setting it aside for a few minutes to warm.
2. Once the bowl is warm, pour out the water and wipe the bowl dry. Add the warm tap water and the yeast, stirring gently for 5-10 seconds. Let the yeast bubble and foam for at least 3 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, salt, and sugar.
4. Add olive oil to the yeast and water mixture, stirring briefly. Then, pour in the flour mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Lightly flour a clean countertop and knead the dough for 4-5 minutes until a smooth dough ball forms. Place the dough back into the metal mixing bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and set it on top of the preheating oven to proof/rise for five minutes.

For the Pizza:

1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C), not broil.
2. Lightly spray two small baking sheets or pizza pans with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
3. Once the dough is ready, divide it in half and roll each half into a rectangular shape on a floured surface, approximately the size of your pans.
4. Place each dough rectangle onto the prepared baking sheets, pushing the dough into the corners and up the sides.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the perimeter of the dough with the egg wash.
6. Evenly distribute the mozzarella cheese over the flatbreads, avoiding the egg-washed perimeter.
7. Top each flatbread with sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle dried basil and oregano over the toppings.
8. Bake the flatbreads for 10 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Slice into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Homemade Mediterranean Flatbread!

Notes:

• Customize your flatbread with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or fresh basil.
• For a crispy crust, preheat your baking sheets or pizza pans before placing the dough on them.
• Leftover flatbread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Serve the flatbread as a standalone dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious taste of the Mediterranean with every bite of this homemade flatbread!