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:
- Begin by filling a metal mixing bowl with hot tap water and setting it aside for a few minutes to warm.
- 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.
- In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, salt, and sugar.
- 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.
- 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:
- Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C), not broil.
- Lightly spray two small baking sheets or pizza pans with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- 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.
- Place each dough rectangle onto the prepared baking sheets, pushing the dough into the corners and up the sides.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the perimeter of the dough with the egg wash.
- Evenly distribute the mozzarella cheese over the flatbreads, avoiding the egg-washed perimeter.
- Top each flatbread with sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle dried basil and oregano over the toppings.
- Bake the flatbreads for 10 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 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!