This Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π is not only easy to make but also ideal for various occasions. Whether you need a snack, appetizer, or a delightful side dish, this bread packs a flavorful punch. The harmonious blend of cheese, olives, and herbs makes it a standout choice for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This bread comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of cheese and olives creates a rich taste that elevates any meal.
Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as a snack, serve it with soups and salads, or bring it to parties and potlucks.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or olives to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Hearty and Satisfying: This bread is filling enough to stand alone yet pairs beautifully with other dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking this delightful bread, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Hereβs what youβll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking spatula
Importance of Each Tool
Loaf pan: This is essential for shaping the bread as it bakes evenly and holds its form.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep wet and dry ingredients separate until youβre ready to combine them.
Whisk: A good whisk ensures that your dry ingredients are well mixed, leading to better texture in your bread.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour πΎ
1 tablespoon baking powder π₯
1/2 teaspoon salt π§
1/2 teaspoon black pepper β«
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional πΆοΈ)
Wet Ingredients
1 cup whole milk π₯
1/4 cup olive oil π«
2 large eggs π₯
Flavor Additions
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix π§)
1 cup pitted olives (green, black, or a mix, drained π«)
2 tablespoons butter (melted, or non-stick cooking spray for greasing the loaf pan)
How to Make Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Grease a 9Γ5 inch loaf pan with melted butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl:
* Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
* Whisk together the milk, olive oil, and eggs until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients:
* Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Add Flavorings
Stir in:
* The shredded cheese, olives, and thyme (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan:
* Spread it evenly across the pan.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Bake for:
* About 45-50 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let the bread cool in the pan for:
* About 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now you have a delicious savory bread thatβs perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!
How to Serve Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
Serving Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives is delightful and easy. This bread pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
As an Appetizer
Serve warm slices alongside a selection of dips, such as hummus or olive tapenade.
Pair with a cheese platter featuring different types of cheeses that complement the flavors in the bread.
For Breakfast
Toast slices lightly and spread with butter or cream cheese for a quick morning treat.
Enjoy with fresh fruit on the side for a balanced breakfast option.
As a Side Dish
Accompany soups or salads to add texture and flavor to your meal.
Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner option.
At Parties
Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve on platters for easy snacking.
Combine with other savory bites like stuffed peppers or mini quiches for a delightful spread.
How to Perfect Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
To ensure your Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
Donβt overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense bread.
Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your bread; ovens may vary in temperature, so check for doneness early.
Add variety: Experiment with different cheeses or olives to customize flavor profiles according to your taste preferences.
Store properly: Keep leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives can be complemented wonderfully by various side dishes. Here are some great options:
Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the breadβs richness.
Tomato Soup: The creamy texture of tomato soup makes it a perfect match, providing warmth and comfort.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a filling side dish that complements the breadβs flavors.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and contrast, balancing the savory notes of the bread.
Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken or turkey serves as a protein-rich counterpart that rounds out the meal nicely.
Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based dip can provide cooling contrast when served alongside this warm bread.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives and feta adds another layer of flavor while maintaining simplicity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π, steer clear of these common pitfalls.
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or expired ingredients can affect the flavor and rising of your bread. Always check your baking powder and cheese for freshness before starting.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir just until combined for a light, airy texture.
Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise quantities.
Skipping the greasing step: Forgetting to grease the loaf pan can cause sticking. Always ensure your pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper.
Underestimating baking time: Each oven is different, so check for doneness by inserting a skewer. Adjust baking time as needed to avoid undercooked bread.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π
Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
What type of olives are best?
Both green and black olives work well. Choose your favorite or mix them for added taste.
How can I customize this savory quick bread?
You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, chopped spinach, or herbs like rosemary and oregano to enhance flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also have a golden-brown crust.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use two loaf pans or one larger pan.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives π§π is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether youβre enjoying it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, youβll love the rich flavors it brings. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses and herbs!
Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives is the perfect solution for a delicious snack or an impressive appetizer! This easy-to-make bread combines the rich flavors of cheese and olives, creating a delightful treat that suits any occasionβbe it a cozy night in or a lively gathering with friends. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this savory loaf thatβs sure to impress. Customize it with your favorite cheeses and herbs for a personalized touch. Enjoy it warm or store it for later; this bread is as versatile as it is flavorful!
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup olive oil
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 cup pitted olives (green, black, or a mix)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and grease a 9Γ5 inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
In another bowl, whisk together milk, olive oil, and eggs until combined.
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just mixed.
Fold in shredded cheese, olives, and thyme until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Category:Snack/Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 slice
Calories:210
Sugar:1g
Sodium:300mg
Fat:10g
Saturated Fat:3g
Unsaturated Fat:6g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:25g
Fiber:1g
Protein:6g
Cholesterol:40mg
Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavors. Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap; they can last up to three days in the fridge.