Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of warm, fluffy focaccia topped with a luscious herbed ricotta spread and sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes. This Herbed Ricotta and Roasted Tomato Focaccia is not just a recipe; it's an invitation to indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right in your own kitchen. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can create a stunning centerpiece for your next meal or a delightful snack that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 focaccia
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C). Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the herbed ricotta mixture. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano. Mix well and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and stretch it out into a rectangular or circular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Using your fingers, create dimples all over the surface of the dough. This will help hold the toppings and give the focaccia its characteristic look.
- Spread the herbed ricotta mixture evenly over the surface of the dough. Then, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top, cut side up.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the focaccia and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Place the focaccia in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tomatoes are roasted.
- Once baked, remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Transfer it to a cutting board, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Perfect Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot (around 110°F or 43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it. A frothy mixture is your green light to proceed!
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you go, but avoid adding too much to keep the focaccia light and airy.
- Rising Time: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the bowl in an oven that’s turned off but has the light on to create a cozy environment.
- Dimpling the Dough: When you create dimples in the dough, be generous! This not only gives the focaccia its signature look but also helps the herbed ricotta and tomatoes stay in place while baking.
- Baking Tips: Keep an eye on your focaccia as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown edge and roasted tomatoes for the perfect finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your focaccia warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or can be served as an appetizer with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
