Indulge in the rustic charm of Mediterranean cuisine with our Focaccia Onion Board recipe – a savory delight that embodies the heart and soul of Italian flavors. In this recipe, fragrant rosemary-infused focaccia serves as the canvas for a bountiful display of caramelized onions, ripe cherry tomatoes, and briny olives. The combination of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering medley of textures and tastes that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Italy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to savor a taste of the Mediterranean, the Focaccia Onion Board is a true culinary masterpiece. Let’s embark on this savory journey.
Why You’ll Love Focaccia Onion Board:
- Mediterranean Bliss: This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Perfect for Sharing: It’s an excellent choice for gatherings, as it can be served as an appetizer or even a centerpiece for a charcuterie spread.
- Artful Presentation: The vibrant colors and arrangement make it a feast for the eyes, as well as the palate.
Ingredients for Focaccia Onion Board:
To create this Mediterranean masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
For the Focaccia:
- 1 pound (450g) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
For the Onion Topping:
- 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Board:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Extra olive oil, for drizzling
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Focaccia Onion Board:
1. Prepare the Focaccia:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, creating a rectangle or oval shape.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
- Drizzle olive oil over the dough and use your fingers to spread it evenly, covering the entire surface.
- Sprinkle dried rosemary (or lay fresh rosemary sprigs) evenly over the oiled dough.
- Season with sea salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
- While the focaccia is baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the thinly sliced red onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the caramelized onions and season with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Assemble the Focaccia Onion Board:
- Once the focaccia is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the focaccia to a serving board or platter.
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the focaccia.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives over the onions.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the entire board for a luscious finish.
- Slice the Focaccia Onion Board into portions and serve as an appetizer or part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Pro Tips for Perfect Focaccia Onion Board:
- Focaccia Thickness: You can customize the thickness of your focaccia based on your preference – thinner for a crisper texture or thicker for a softer, bread-like consistency.
- Fresh Rosemary: If using fresh rosemary, be sure to remove the woody stems before sprinkling it on the dough.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like crumbled feta cheese, roasted red peppers, or marinated artichoke hearts.
Conclusion:
The Focaccia Onion Board is a visual and culinary masterpiece that celebrates the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The warm, rosemary-infused focaccia serves as the perfect canvas for the sweet caramelized onions, ripe cherry tomatoes, and briny olives. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or savoring it as a solo indulgence, this dish is a delightful homage to the flavors of Italy. Enjoy the artful presentation and exquisite taste of the Focaccia Onion Board as you savor each bite. Buon appetito!
