Step 1: FOR THE PAN: Lightly grease a 9 x 13-in baking pan. Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of the pan & set aside. (I like using my pastry brush to equally distribute the oil).
Step 2: FOR THE BREAD: Combine all the ingredients in the bowl of an electric stand mixer. Beat at high speed for 1 minute. The dough will be sticky. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Cover & allow to rise for 1 hour.
Step 3: TO FINISH THE BREAD AND TOPPINGS:
Step 4: Preheat oven to 375°F. If necessary, use your fingers to spread the dough into the corners of the pan. Then use a finger to poke the dough gently all over. A little olive oil on your finger will keep the dough from sticking to you.
Step 5: Drizzle the top w/olive oil. Sprinkle w/your desired toppings (Using my pastry brush again for this step). Bake 25-30 min or until the bread is golden brown. Cool in the pan for at least 5 min before serving.
Step 6: NOTE RE TOPPINGS: Suggested toppings included garlic, basil, rosemary, oregano, sea salt or an Italian Seasoning Blend. Toppings can also be more substantial & include olives, onion, cherry tomatoes or a chg to Feta cheese.
Step 7: NOTE RE SERVING: This bread can be cut into sml pieces or long strips like a bread stick. It can be served w/olive oil or marinara sauce for dipping. It can be sliced & used for bruschetta. There are more options, but you get the idea -- Versatility works wonders!
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