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Whipped Feta Garden on Golden Focaccia

A delectable combination of fluffy focaccia topped with creamy whipped feta and a colorful array of fresh toppings, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Course: Appetizer, Brunch, Snacks
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Keyword: Bread Recipe, Focaccia, Fresh Ingredients, Garden Aesthetics, Whipped Feta
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the Focaccia Dough

  • 3 1/4 cups 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour Soft base for airy bread.
  • 2 tsp 2 tsp instant yeast To promote an airy texture.
  • 1 1/2 tsp 1 1/2 tsp salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water Crucial for activating yeast.
  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling) Adds richness.
  • to taste Flaky salt for topping Adds crunch.

For the Whipped Feta

  • 200 g 200g feta cheese Creamy and tangy.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or labneh Thick and creamy.
  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness.
  • 1/2 1/2 garlic clove, grated Infuses flavor.
  • 1/2 zest Zest of 1/2 lemon Adds freshness.
  • to taste Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.

For the Toppings

  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved Juicy bursts of sweetness.
  • 1 Fresh herb sprigs (thyme, basil, dill, parsley) Aromatic and vibrant.
  • to taste Edible flowers (nasturtiums, violas, pansies) Adds beauty.
  • optional Cucumber ribbons, sliced radishes, microgreens Adds extra crunch.

Instructions

Make the Dough

  • Mix the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Pour in the warm water, stirring gently until the mixture becomes sticky.
  • Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface until just smooth.
  • Cover the bowl and set aside in a warm place for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare for Baking

  • Gently turn the risen dough onto a greased baking pan.
  • Stretch and shape the dough to fit the pan, creating dimples with your fingers.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the dough.
  • Let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.

Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Bake the focaccia for about 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Let it cool for a few moments before serving.

Whip up the Feta

  • Combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, grated garlic, and lemon zest in a food processor.
  • Blitz until smooth and spreadable. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Slice and Serve

  • Slice the cooled focaccia into squares and cut each horizontally to create pockets.
  • Spread whipped feta inside each slice.
  • Decorate with cherry tomatoes, herbs, and edible flowers.
  • Finish with flaky salt and additional olive oil.
  • Serve on a platter for guests to enjoy.

Notes

To store leftovers, use an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week. Optionally prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate overnight.