Tomato Basil Bread

Total Time Prep: 30 min. + rising Bake: 35 min.

Yield 1 loaf

This round breads' chewy crust pairs well with a steaming mug of soup. The pretty color and robust flavor are great conversation starters. —Darlene Hoefs, Schofield, Wisconsin

Ingredients

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1/4 cup minced fresh basil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2-1/4 to 2-1/2 cups bread flour

Directions

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Stir in basil, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, sugar, oil, salt, pepper flakes and 2 cups flour. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 3-5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch dough down; knead for 1 minute. Shape into a round loaf. Place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
With a sharp knife, cut a large "X" in top of loaf. Bake at 375° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool.

Nutrition Facts

1 slice: 121 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 40mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.

This round breads' chewy crust pairs well with a steaming mug of soup. The pretty color and robust flavor are great conversation starters. —Darlene Hoefs, Schofield, Wisconsin

Recipe Creator