Delicious and Fragrant Herbed Italian Loaf Recipe

This Herbed Italian Loaf is a savory bread loaded with fragrant herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It has a crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior. It's perfect for serving alongside pasta dishes, soups, or as an appetizer. This recipe is easy to make and will impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, dried herbs, garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet.
7. Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts