Visitors absolutely love this! I always run out too quickly!

There's something incredibly satisfying about making your own bread, especially when it's as simple and delicious as this herbed garlic flatbread. This recipe is inspired by the rustic charm of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh herbs and garlic are staples in everyday cooking. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the aroma of baking bread with garlic and herbs is simply irresistible. This flatbread is not only a delightful addition to any meal, but it also makes a great snack or appetizer.

This herbed garlic flatbread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal. It also complements a fresh salad, adding a warm, savory element to your plate. For a more indulgent option, try it with a selection of cheeses and a glass of wine for a simple yet elegant appetizer. If you're hosting a gathering, cut the flatbread into smaller pieces and serve it with a variety of dips like hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.

Servings: 4-6 servings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro, parsley, or a mix)
Coarse salt for sprinkling

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a flat round or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped herbs evenly over the top.

Drizzle a little olive oil over the flatbread and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the bread is cooked through.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the flatbread before baking. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and herb mixture. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Remember, the key to a great flatbread is a hot oven, so make sure it's fully preheated before you start baking.