Food

Mediterranean Focaccia Bread Bites with a Salt Crust & Thyme

These Focaccia Bread Bites are a perfect balance of golden crispiness, soft airy dough, and fragrant Mediterranean flavors. Infused with thyme, topped with a crunchy salt crust, and enriched with olive oil, they taste absolutely divine—especially fresh out of the oven. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on their own, they pair beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

Why you need to try this Mediterranean Bread Recipe

Traditional focaccia is typically made with refined white flour, but in this version, we use semi-whole wheat flour for extra fiber and a more rustic taste. Instead of a classic large focaccia loaf, these bite-sized portions bake up with a crisp golden crust while staying incredibly soft inside. The addition of Skyr, a protein-rich Icelandic yogurt, enhances the dough’s texture, making it even creamier on the inside. The combination of thyme, olive oil, and delicate Fleur de Sel creates an irresistible Mediterranean flavor that elevates this bread beyond the ordinary.

General Information & Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Nutrition per Serving:

*Values may vary based on exact ingredients used

Calories: ~180 kcal
Protein: ~6g
Carbs: ~25g
Fat: ~6g
Fiber: ~3g

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

300 g semi-whole wheat flour
1 small cup Skyr (~150g)
2 flat teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons thyme
200 ml warm water (ideal temp: 35-40°C / 95-104°F)
1 packet dry yeast (~7g)
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Fleur de Sel for topping (or coarse sea salt as an alternative)
1 egg yolk

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a glass, dissolve the dry yeast in 200 ml of warm water and stir. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it starts to bubble and activate. Make sure the water is not too hot or too cold—the ideal temperature is around 35-40°C (95-104°F) to allow the yeast to work properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, Skyr, salt, thyme, and olive oil. Add in the activated yeast mixture and stir well. The dough will be sticky—this is completely normal!

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and place it in a warm oven (around 50°C / 122°F) for one hour. As shown in the images below, the dough should double in size.

Step 4: Shape the Focaccia Bites

Once risen, take the dough out and divide it into small, irregular portions in a baking dish (don’t worry if the dough is sticky or uneven—these bites will expand and become fluffy in the oven).

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Separate the egg yolk from the egg white. Brush the tops of the dough pieces with the egg yolk—this helps create a golden, crispy crust. Sprinkle generously with Fleur de Sel or coarse salt.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake the focaccia bites for 45-60 minutes or until they turn crispy and golden brown on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve the Focaccia Bites

These Mediterranean Focaccia Bites are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Their crispy, golden crust and soft, flavorful interior make them the perfect companion to a variety of Mediterranean flavors. Here are some of the best ways to serve them:

With Dips & Spreads

One of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy these bites is with a selection of dips and spreads. Pair them with hummus, baba ganoush, tapenade, or tzatziki for a flavorful appetizer platter. The richness of the olive oil in the bread complements the creamy texture of these dips, making each bite irresistible.

With Fresh Mediterranean Salads

Whether it’s a classic Greek salad with feta and olives, a Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes and mozzarella, or an arugula salad with shaved parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, the focaccia bites add the perfect crunchy contrast to salads.

As Part of a Cheese & Charcuterie Board

If you’re looking for something heartier, these bites make an excellent addition to a cheese and charcuterie board. Pair them with aged cheeses like Manchego, Comté, or Parmesan, as well as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and thinly sliced cured meats such as prosciutto or chorizo.

With Seafood & Light Proteins

These bites are an ideal match for grilled fish, garlic shrimp, or mussels cooked in white wine. The herby, slightly crispy texture of the focaccia balances the freshness of seafood beautifully, making it an effortless, tasteful pairing.

As a Side to Soups & Stews

They also work wonderfully as a side to soups and stews, especially tomato soup, French onion soup, or a Provençal vegetable stew. Dipping warm focaccia into a rich, aromatic broth is one of the most comforting ways to enjoy this bread.

For Breakfast & Brunch

Even at breakfast or brunch, these bites can find their place on the table. Serve them with soft-boiled eggs, smoked salmon, or avocado slices for a Mediterranean-inspired morning meal. They’re also fantastic with a drizzle of honey and goat cheese.

More About the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is often praised as one of the healthiest ways to eat, thanks to its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. Rich in vegetables, legumes, olive oil, whole grains, and lean proteins, this way of eating is not about strict rules or restrictions but about flavor, variety, and enjoyment.

In French food culture, eating well is not just about health—it’s about indulging in delicious, thoughtfully prepared meals that nourish both body and soul.

If you’re interested in more Mediterranean-inspired recipes and tips, explore our Food section for the secrets to effortless, balanced eating.