Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia

Following a ketogenic diet doesn't mean giving up all your favorite foods. With this easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia recipe, you can indulge in a delectable bread that won't throw you out of ketosis.

Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch, this focaccia delivers nutrition without compromising taste.

Why you’ll love this keto-friendly recipe 

Giving up bread can be one of the hardest parts of starting a nutritious low-carb diet such as Healthy Keto®.

However, with this easy Keto Focaccia recipe, you don't have to sacrifice the comforting taste and texture of traditional bread.

This bread is made with naturally low-carb and gluten-free ingredients such as almond flour, flaxseed meal, and olive oil. 

Because it’s made with low-carb ingredients, this focaccia is 100 percent keto-approved and won’t significantly spike your blood sugar levels. This makes it ideal for those managing diabetes or looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

The combination of almond flour and flaxseed meal provides a hearty texture and a boost of fiber, which supports digestion and promotes a diverse intestinal microflora. 

Moreover, the rosemary and garlic salt add aromatic depth, while the black olives provide a salty and savory kick.

Thanks to its soft texture, focaccia is one of the best breads for dipping. It can also be used as a flatbread and topped with low-carb ingredients such as avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or cheese for a satisfying treat or light lunch.

What is focaccia?

Focaccia is a traditional Italian flatbread known for its rich flavor and distinctive dimpled surface.

Originating from the ancient Roman phrase panis focacius, which translates as hearth bread, focaccia was originally baked on the hearth or base of a hot oven.

Over time, it evolved into a staple of Italian cuisine, particularly in the Liguria region, where it's often flavored with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and herbs.

Most focaccia recipes use active dry yeast or dry yeast, which must be activated with sugar for about ten minutes before being added to the flour to help the dough to rise. 

The mixture is kneaded, placed in a baking tray, then covered with plastic wrap, and left for about an hour to let the dough proof and double in size. 

Focaccia is baked in a hot oven until it's golden brown, crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside.   

This versatile bread can be enjoyed on its own, used for sandwiches, or served as an accompaniment to soups and salads.

However, traditional focaccia is typically made with wheat bread flour, which is off-limits for those following a ketogenic diet.

That's where this easy Keto Focaccia recipe comes in. It provides all the taste and texture of traditional focaccia without the added carbs.

Health benefits of olives

For centuries, olives have been revered for their delicate nutty taste and impressive health benefits. 

Research published in the Handbook of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods found that olives are a rich source of monounsaturated fats linked to improved heart health and balanced cholesterol levels.

"Olives are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and protect cells and tissues from oxidative damage," explains Dr. Berg.

Olives are keto-friendly and packed with dietary fiber that promotes satiety and helps regulate digestive processes.

Additionally, olives contain various compounds that support overall immune function and are associated with potential anti-cancer effects.

It’s best to choose minimally processed olive products and avoid those with added sugars or preservatives, which can increase the carb content and may kick you out of ketosis.

What to serve with Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia

When it comes to pairing this delicious low-carb focaccia with other foods, the possibilities are endless.

Here are some suggestions for a complete keto-friendly meal.

Keto Tuscan Chicken

This creamy and flavorful Keto Tuscan Chicken recipe is a mouthwatering dish you can serve any day of the week.

The combination of juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich cream sauce pairs perfectly with the heartiness of the focaccia.

Keto Parmesan Mozzarella-Crusted Rib Eye Steak

Pair Keto Focaccia with this Keto Parmesan Mozzarella-Crusted Rib Eye Steak for a truly Italian-inspired feast.

The tender steak and cheesy crust harmonize beautifully with the subtle flavors of olives and fresh rosemary in the focaccia.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

For a lighter meal, serve this focaccia with low-carb Chicken Tortilla Soup.

With shredded chicken, avocado, and a touch of sour cream, this soup is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Keto Greek Salad

Serve focaccia alongside a refreshing Keto Greek Salad. The crisp vegetables and tangy feta cheese provide a perfect contrast to the bread's soft texture.

Add some grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for an extra boost of protein and healthy fats.

Keto Meatballs

Ready in just 35 minutes, these Keto Meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish to serve with Keto Focaccia.

Made with ground beef and pork, they can be served on top of the focaccia to create a delicious keto-approved flatbread dish that the whole family will love. 

Keto Irresistible Baked Chicken

This Keto Irresistible Baked Chicken recipe is another great option to enjoy with this delicious rosemary-infused focaccia.

Bacon-wrapped chicken breasts topped with garlic, chives, and a creamy cheese filling create a mouthwatering culinary delight that will impress even the pickiest eater.

Storing and reheating tips

To store this Keto Focaccia, let it cool completely before covering it with a rimmed baking sheet or placing it in an airtight container.

While it can be kept at room temperature, it’s best stored in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week.

For longer storage, wrap the focaccia with aluminum foil and place it in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy, place frozen focaccia in a baking pan, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until warm and slightly crispy.

You can also use a toaster oven to reheat individual slices. Just be sure to monitor it closely to prevent burning.

Avoid reheating this low-carb bread in the microwave, as it can make it rubbery and tough to eat. 

Final thoughts

This Keto Black Olive Focaccia recipe includes simple, nutritious ingredients such as almond flour, eggs, and olive oil.

It’s infused with aromatic rosemary and black olive flavor and pairs well with various low-carb dishes, such as soups and salads, or can be used to make low-carb flatbread. 

FAQ

1. Is focaccia high in carbs? 

Traditional focaccia bread is made with whole wheat flour, which is high in carbs. 

However, this Keto Black Olive Focaccia recipe uses almond flour and flaxseed meal as a low-carb alternative. 

2. How many carbs are in Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia?

This recipe yields 12 servings. Each slice contains approximately 14 grams of total carbs, including 8 grams of fiber, leaving a net carb count of 6 grams per serving.

3. Is Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia gluten-free?

Yes, this focaccia recipe is gluten-free, as it replaces wheat flour with gluten-free almond flour as the main ingredient.

4. Is focaccia healthier than bread?

While focaccia is generally considered a better option to conventional bread, traditional focaccia recipes are typically made with flour, and a sugar and yeast mixture which helps the dough rise. However, these ingredients are high in carbs and can raise blood glucose levels.

In contrast, this Keto Black Olive Focaccia recipe uses low-carb almond flour and other nutritious ingredients such as black olives and rosemary, making it a healthier option for those following a low-carb diet.

5. What should I serve with keto focaccia?

You can serve this Keto Focaccia with a variety of dishes, such as Keto Greek Salad, Keto Meatballs, or Chicken Tortilla Soup. It’s also perfect for making sandwiches and preparing low-carb flatbreads. 

6. Can I have black olives on keto?

Yes, black olives are keto-friendly. They’re low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making them a great addition to a keto diet. Additionally, black olives offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and enhanced immune function.

However, be mindful when purchasing olives, as some brands may include added preservatives or sugars that can increase the carb content. 

Source

1. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9780429195594-12/