Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful treat, this Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives is just the thing. It’s one of those recipes that brings back memories of family gatherings and shared laughter around the table. The combination of rich cheese and briny olives gives this bread a delightful twist that makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

What I love most about this savory quick bread is how simple it is to whip up. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hours in the kitchen. Just mix, pour, and bake! It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have much time to spare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the cheesy, savory flavors—it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults!
• Make Ahead: Bake it in advance for meal prep, and enjoy delicious slices throughout the week.
• Versatile: Great as a snack, appetizer, or side dish; it pairs beautifully with soups and salads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a delicious loaf right at home. Gather these items before you start:

For the Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pitted olives (green, black, or a mix, drained)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted), or non-stick cooking spray for greasing the loaf pan

Variations

One of the best things about this savory quick bread is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Change Up the Cheese: Swap in your favorite cheese varieties like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and taste.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or oregano to give your bread a unique flair.
• Nutty Crunch: Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for added texture and depth.

How to Make Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment you put it in. Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with melted butter or non-stick spray so that your bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, and eggs until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your bread. It’s important to beat them well so that they blend seamlessly into your batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—this is key! Overmixing can lead to tough bread. Once combined, fold in the shredded cheese, olives, and thyme until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool Down

Let the bread cool in its pan for about 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows flavors to settle while keeping that lovely crumb intact.

Enjoy sharing this Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives with friends and family—or keep it all to yourself; I won’t tell!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives

Making this savory quick bread is an enjoyable experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be on your way to baking perfection in no time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese can greatly enhance the flavor of your bread. They bring vibrant tastes that make each bite delightful.
• Don’t overmix – Gently mixing your batter ensures a tender bread. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that might not rise as beautifully.
• Experiment with cheeses – Mixing different types of cheese, like feta or gouda, can add unique flavors to your bread. It’s a fun way to customize the recipe to your tastes!
• Add more veggies – Chopped bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes can add color and additional flavor. This not only makes the bread more nutritious but also visually appealing.
• Check for doneness – Ovens vary in temperature; using a wooden skewer helps ensure that your bread is baked perfectly and not doughy inside. It’s always better to check early rather than risk overbaking.

How to Serve Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives

This savory quick bread is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, it will surely impress.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Olive oil drizzle – A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top before serving enhances the flavors and adds a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the savory bread.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add warmth and depth to your meal while keeping it healthy.
• Hummus Dipping Sauce – A creamy hummus made from chickpeas offers a delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making it perfect for dipping slices of the bread.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives alongside some fabulous accompaniments! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place wrapped bread in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread before freezing to make it easier to thaw individual portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and type of bread for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave slices for 20-30 seconds or until heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you.

Can I use different types of cheese in Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or even a blend can work beautifully in this savory quick bread.

How do I store leftovers of Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives?

To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping!

Can I add other ingredients to my Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives?

Definitely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, herbs (like rosemary or basil), or even chopped vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for special dietary needs?

Yes! This recipe avoids pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin while being adaptable for various preferences. Feel free to substitute ingredients as needed!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives a try! It’s not only simple to make but also packed with flavor that makes every bite delightful. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or serve it alongside your favorite meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to share your experiences!