Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

This Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞 is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack, an appetizer for guests, or a side dish for your meal, this bread fits the bill. Its unique blend of cheese and olives gives it a rich flavor that appeals to everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This savory quick bread requires minimal prep time and can be baked in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of cheese, olives, and herbs creates a delicious taste that makes every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a snack, appetizer, or side dish – serve it warm with butter or alongside soups and salads.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or olives to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your friends and family with a homemade bread that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

To make this savory quick bread successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden skewer

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping the bread and ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients without mess or spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing wet ingredients together.

Ingredients

This savory quick bread is easy to make and perfect for a snack, appetizer, or side dish. The combination of cheese, olives, and herbs creates a delicious and flavorful bread that’s sure to be a hit.

Dry Ingredients

• • 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• • 1 tablespoon baking powder 🥄
• • 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
• • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ⚫
• • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional 🌶️)

Wet Ingredients

• • 1 cup whole milk 🥛
• • 1/4 cup olive oil 🫒
• • 2 large eggs 🥚

Flavor Additions

• • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix 🧀)
• • 1 cup pitted olives (green, black, or a mix, drained 🫒)
• • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional) 🌿)

Greasing the Pan

• • 2 tablespoons butter (melted, or non-stick cooking spray for greasing the loaf pan)

How to Make Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with melted butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the milk, olive oil, and eggs until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; lumps are okay!

Step 5: Add Flavorings

Stir in:
1. The shredded cheese,
2. The drained olives,
3. The thyme (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for 45-50 minutes,
2. Or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked:
1. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes,
2. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞!

How to Serve Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

This savory quick bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re planning a casual snack or a festive gathering, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm with a selection of dips like hummus or tzatziki for a flavorful start to your meal.
• Pair it with antipasto platters featuring marinated vegetables and cheeses.

With Salads

• Slice and serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.
• Complement with a Greek salad, allowing the olives in both dishes to harmonize beautifully.

For Breakfast

• Top slices with avocado or cream cheese for a hearty morning bite.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs or omelets for a filling breakfast.

At Picnics

• Pack slices in your picnic basket along with fresh fruits and nuts for an easy-to-eat meal outdoors.
• Enjoy with cold cuts or grilled vegetables for variety in flavors.

How to Perfect Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

Achieving the perfect savory quick bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter combine more easily and creates a lighter texture.
• Avoid overmixing: Stir just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can enhance the flavor profile of your bread.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean when done baking.
• Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

Pairing side dishes with your savory quick bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing blend of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide warmth and sweetness that balances the savory notes of the bread.
3. Chickpea Salad – A protein-packed salad mixed with herbs and lemon brings zest and nutrition to your plate.
4. Bruschetta – Topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this Italian classic pairs well with the rich flavors of cheese and olives.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken adds protein and complements the olive flavors beautifully.
6. Stuffed Peppers – These colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for an exciting addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making savory quick bread can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind. Here are some mistakes to avoid when preparing your Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the texture and flavor of your bread. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread instead of fluffy and light results. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven as instructed for optimal results.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking powder or old cheese can affect the rise and taste of your bread. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the bread too soon can lead to a gummy texture. Allow it to cool properly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your savory quick bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the bread tightly with plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

• To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying your savory quick bread.

Can I customize my Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞?

Yes! You can add different types of cheeses, herbs, or even vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.

How do I know when my Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞 is done?

Insert a wooden skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is baked through.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great options. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking.

How long does this bread last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Quick Bread With Cheese And Olives 🧀🍞 is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, it is sure to impress. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses and herbs to make it uniquely yours!