Braided Italian Herb Bread

Ingredients

• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 2 teaspoons of instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1 cup of lukewarm water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, and rosemary and mix until combined.
2. Slowly add the lukewarm water and mix until the dough starts to come together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 3 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 24 inches long. Place the 3 ropes side by side and braid together. Pinch the ends together to form a circle. Place the braid on a parchment lined baking sheet and let rise until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake the bread for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts

• This bread is a great way to use up any herbs you have on hand.
• The braid in the bread makes it not only look beautiful, but also helps keep the bread together.
• This bread is best served warm, with a dollop of butter or a delicious olive oil dip.