Mediterranean Vegetable Focaccia

This savory Mediterranean Vegetable Focaccia recipe combines the rustic flavors of the Mediterranean with the comforting familiarity of warm, homemade bread. Bursting with colorful veggies and fragrant herbs, this flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or as a delightful addition to any meal.

**Ingredients:**

– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.

2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press and stretch the dough to form a rectangle or oval shape.

5. Arrange the sliced bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary on top of the dough. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

6. Bake the focaccia in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.

7. Remove the focaccia from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top while it’s still warm. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the cheese for extra flavor.

8. Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this Mediterranean Vegetable Focaccia warm or at room temperature, paired with a glass of your favorite wine or a side salad for a delightful meal.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Mediterranean Vegetable Focaccia is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and homemade goodness. Give this recipe a try and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!