Red wine season meets comfort baking in this rustic focaccia that’s all about flavor, texture, and a little kitchen magic. This recipe features my Red Wine–Infused Sicilian Sea Salt with Rosemary, the secret that instantly transforms your kitchen into pure cozy bliss—think warm bread and rosemary filling every corner. Soft, pillowy dough rises into a golden sheet topped with fragrant rosemary and that vibrant, savory salt, giving every bite a gorgeous depth. Simple, hands-on, and effortlessly impressive, it’s perfect for dipping in olive oil, pairing with hearty winter dishes, or setting the mood at your holiday table. One bake, and it’s Napa creativity at its most delicious.

Golden brown artisanal bread with dimpled surface and rosemary garnish on slate board.

Makes: 1 large focaccia (about 9x13 inches)

Time: 3 hours (including rising)

 

 


Ingredients


  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2–3 tsp red wine & rosemary Sicilian sea salt, for finishing
  • Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:


  • Tear and enjoy with olive oil or balsamic for dipping
  • Pair with roasted meats, like steak or lamb
  • Serve alongside soups or holiday spreads for extra flavor



Instructions



1. Prepare the dough

  • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
  • Add yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil to the flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms.


2. Knead & rise

  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.


3. Shape the focaccia

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • Gently stretch the dough into the pan, pressing with fingers to form dimples all over the surface.
  • Drizzle with olive oil.


4. Add the finishing touches


5. Bake

  • Bake 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and drizzle a little more olive oil if desired.
  • Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.