Slow Rise Olive Oil Bread

There's nothing quite like a fresh loaf of bread. But don't be intimidated, baking bread is actually easy, and it's always a crowd pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
•  2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
•  1 teaspoon white sugar
•  1 teaspoon salt
•  4 tablespoons varietal EVOO (I used Picual)
•  2 cups flour (plus 1/2 cup as needed)

1. In a large bowl mix together the warm water (110 degrees), yeast, sugar, salt, and olive oil. Stir in 2 cups of the flour in order to make a soft ball. Knead in additional flour as needed so that dough is soft and not sticky. Place kneaded dough in a medium size greased bowl. Cover and let rise until doubled in size.
2. Punch down dough, and form into ball or loaf shape. Place onto a greased cookie sheet. Cover and let rise for 15 to 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until golden brown.