Focaccia Genovese is a classic Italian bread known for its crispy exterior, soft interior, and a rich flavor enhanced by olive oil and coarse sea salt. It’s perfect as a side, sandwich base, or enjoyed on its own.
Focaccia Genovese originates from the Liguria region, particularly from the city of Genoa. Known for its soft, airy texture and golden, crispy crust, this focaccia is a true staple of Italian cuisine. Unlike many other types of bread, focaccia Genovese is generously seasoned with olive oil, salt, and fresh rosemary, creating a savory, aromatic flavor that makes it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
The dough for focaccia Genovese is made from simple ingredients: flour, water, yeast, and salt, but it is the liberal use of high-quality olive oil that truly defines its character. The oil is incorporated into the dough, and then the surface is generously drizzled with more olive oil before baking. This results in a rich, moist crumb with a crisp, golden crust that is both tender and flavorful. The signature topping of rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note, while the salt balances out the richness of the olive oil.
What sets focaccia Genovese apart from other types of focaccia is its depth of flavor, achieved through a careful baking technique that encourages the dough to rise and form deep pockets, perfect for holding the oil and seasoning. The bread is typically baked until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges, while remaining soft and chewy inside.
Focaccia Genovese can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It’s often served as a side dish with pasta, salads, or soups, or enjoyed on its own as a snack. It also makes an excellent base for sandwiches, especially when filled with meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. For an even more flavorful twist, some variations include toppings such as olives, onions, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Whether served as a snack, side dish, or main course, focaccia Genovese’s irresistible combination of flavors and textures makes it a beloved part of Italian culinary tradition.

Ingredients
- 500 grams all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 300 ml warm water
- 7 grams dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt for topping
Instructions
- In a bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit until it becomes frothy, about 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 50 ml of olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Punch down the dough and place it on a well-oiled baking sheet. Stretch it out to fit the pan, then dimple the surface with your fingers.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
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This focaccia turned out AMAZING! So fluffy and flavorful! Will definitely make again. 😊
Really? I tried the same recipe and mine didn’t fluff up at all… Maybe I messed up the yeast? 🤔
I’m glad to hear it turned out well! I’ve always been a bit nervous about making focaccia. Any tips for a beginner?
Just made this! But I think I burned it… Oops! Next time will check sooner. 😅
Recipe is good but my focaccia turned out too salty. I don’t know why.
Maybe you added too much sea salt on top? It’s easy to do that! Try using less next time.
How is it possible to make bread with just flour and water? I thought you needed more stuff?!
Bread-making is pretty simple! The large gluten proteins in the flour help to give it structure, and the yeast works to leaven the bread. So no worries, it can be done with just a few ingredients!
This is the best focaccia I’ve ever made! So soft and fluffy. Thanks for sharing!
Delicious! 💖
Looks good and all but isn’t 220°C a bit too hot? I usually bake bread at 180°C.
Totally agree! Focaccia is the best! 🍞✨
Easiest recipe ever! I just mixed and baked. Totally worth it.
I tried this recipe but my dough didn’t rise. Did I do something wrong?
Maybe your water was too hot? That can kill the yeast. Try again, it’s worth it!
Sounds like you missed a step or something. Did the yeast really get frothy before you mixed it? That’s important.
Lol, is this bread or pizza? Either way, I love it!
Bread is raise, pizza is flat! But really, does it matter? I’m in for that deliciousness!
Haha, right? It’s like the best of both worlds! Either way, I bet it tastes amazing! 🍞🍕
Focaccia is easy to make but this one took forever to rise. Maybe too much yeast?
I had the same issue! Mine took forever to rise too, but I figured it was just the weather. Maybe try with less yeast next time?
Not so great! It was hard as a rock. I followed it step by step!
I didn’t know you had to knead it for so long. Mine turned out too dense. Next time I’ll knead less and see how it goes.
Delicious! The olive oil really makes a difference. Can’t stop eating it!
Just wow! Perfect side for my pasta dinner. Will definitely make again!
Can you use whole wheat flour instead? I hope it don’t ruin it…
Wow, it’s mind-blowing! Everyone should try it! So soft and fluffy!
I followed the recipe but somehow my dough didn’t rise. What did I do wrong? 🤔
Maybe your water was too hot? It can kill the yeast if it’s over 40°C. 🙁
I dunno, I think this recipe was overly complicated. Who has 1 hour to wait? 😒
I love focaccia! Thumbs up from me. 👌
Hmmm, it looks easy, but I’m not sure if mine would turn out like yours. 🤔
Focaccia is the best! I always make it for parties, everyone loves it! 😊
Super easy and fun to make! I added some rosemary and olives on top, and it was amazing. 🌿
Is it really that simple? I don’t think it’s gonna work for me. Guess I’ll see…
Wow this is the best focaccia I’ve tried! My family can’t get enough of it. Will be making again!
Focaccia is supposed to be easy. Didn’t this take too long?
I don’t understand how my dough didn’t rise. I checked my yeast and it’s still good. Did I do somethin wrong?
This recipe is really good! My family loved it. Definitely making it again! 🍞
This focaccia recipe is amazing! So easy to follow and the taste is to die for. I added some rosemary and it was a hit!
I followed this exactly and it was okay but I’ve had better. Maybe I make better pizza dough instead?