Rustic Olive Bread Rolls

Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Serve them warm with a bit of butter, or use them as the base for a Mediterranean sandwich.

Tips for Perfect Rustic Olive Bread Rolls

• Use high-quality olives: The olives are the star of the dish, so opt for good-quality olives. Kalamata olives add a rich, tangy flavor, while green olives are milder. You can also use a mix of both for variety.
• Add more herbs: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil to customize the flavor of your bread rolls. Fresh herbs work best, but you can use dried herbs as well.
• Try different flours: If you want a denser, heartier texture, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or even spelt flour. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture and rise slightly.
• Storage: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they will keep for 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled rolls in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to refresh them.
• For extra crispness: If you love a crunchy crust, place a small dish of water at the bottom of the oven while baking to create steam. This will help the rolls develop a crisp, bakery-style crust.

Serving Suggestions

These Rustic Olive Bread Rolls are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• With Mediterranean dishes: Serve these rolls alongside hummus, tzatziki, baba ganoush, or a fresh Greek salad. They’re the perfect accompaniment to any Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• For a Sandwich: Slice the rolls and fill them with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even a piece of fried eggplant for a light, flavorful sandwich.
• With Soup or Stew: These rolls are fantastic when served with warm, hearty soups or stews. Try them with a bowl of tomato soup, lentil stew, or a classic minestrone.
• As a Snack: Enjoy these rolls as a snack on their own, with a bit of olive oil for dipping or a smear of butter.

Why You’ll Keep Making Rustic Olive Bread Rolls

These Rustic Olive Bread Rolls are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The olives add a savory, briny touch to the soft, rustic bread, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, as a snack, or at a gathering, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, they’re easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Give these rolls a try today, and you’ll find that homemade bread has never been so satisfying!