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Overhead shot of a round loaf topped with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tomato Basil Bread (Easy Artisan)

Knead sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into a yeasted bread dough, then bake into a savory loaf with Parmesan and olive oil.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups warm water about 110°F (45°C) or 43°C
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast 1 packet
  • 4 cups bread flour plus more for dusting (480g)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 0.25 cup olive oil plus more for brushing (60ml)
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and chopped (55g)
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped (15g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese 50g

Method
 

  1. Activate Yeast Mixture:

    In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently; let stand 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  2. Combine Wet and Dry:

    Add olive oil to the yeast mixture. In another bowl, whisk flour, salt, garlic powder, and Parmesan. Combine wet with dry, then fold in sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

  3. Knead and First Rise:

    Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.

  4. Shape and Second Rise:

    Punch down dough; shape into a round boule or oval loaf. Set on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise another 30-45 minutes.

  5. Preheat Oven with Steam:

    During the second rise, preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack for steam.

  6. Score and Bake Loaf:

    Score the loaf top with a sharp knife. Bake 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown and internal temp reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C).

  7. Cool Completely:

    Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to set the texture.