Faced with leftover focaccia, the question isn’t if you’ll find a use for it, but how to transform it into something delightful again.
From crunchy croutons to a savory bread pudding, the possibilities are endless. If the thought of turning that day-old bread into ten delectable dishes excites you, you’ll want to see what’s next. I promise, your taste buds will thank you.
1. Stovetop Pizza
Got some focaccia left from last night? How about turning it into a crispy Stovetop Pizza? Here’s how you can make a quick snack that’s sure to satisfy your pizza cravings!
Ingredients:
- Leftover focaccia bread
- Tomato sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Toppings of choice (pepperoni, vegetables, etc.)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Cut the focaccia: Slice your focaccia bread to a desirable thickness, typically around 1/2 inch works well.
- Heat the pan: Warm up a non-stick skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add focaccia: Place sliced focaccia in the pan. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden and crispy.
- Top it off: Spread tomato sauce over the focaccia, then sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella. Add your favorite toppings.
- Cover and melt: Place a lid on the skillet to help the cheese melt and the toppings get that just-right warmth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the cheese is all melty and the edges are crispy, your stovetop pizza is ready! Slide it onto a plate, and enjoy right away.
Why’s this a good idea? Well, you get to transform your bread into something new and exciting. Plus, it’s super simple and saves you from waste. Go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy your quick pizza fix!
2. Turkey Pesto Sandwich
If you’ve got some focaccia leftovers, why not whip up a turkey pesto sandwich? It’s super simple and makes for a tasty lunch. Here’s what you’ll do:
- Spread Pesto Mayo: Mix some pesto into mayonnaise for a flavorful spread. Slather it on two slices of your focaccia.
- Layer It Up: Now stack on your ingredients. You’re going for thin slices of roasted turkey — the star of the show. Add a slice or two of provolone or spicy sriracha cheese for a kick.
- Crunch and Freshness: Got romaine lettuce or mixed greens? Perfect. Toss those on next for crunch. Tomato slices and a little red onion add a fresh, juicy crunch.
- Close and Enjoy: Top with your second slice of focaccia, press down gently, and you’re ready to dig in.
Remember, you can always tweak this sandwich to your liking. Swap in different veggies or cheeses to make it your own delicious creation. Want to warm it up? Toss it in a panini press or bake it until the cheese is melty and the bread is toasty. Give it a go, and enjoy your lunch!
3. Focaccia Croutons
Got some stale focaccia? Don’t toss it out! Turn it into croutons that will make any salad or soup extra special. Here’s how you can give your day-old focaccia a delicious new life.
Ingredients:
- Leftover focaccia bread
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the focaccia into 1-inch cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, enough to lightly coat.
- Season lightly with garlic powder and salt.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
- Let them cool before tossing in your favorite salads or soups.
Tips:
- Don’t let the croutons get too dark; keep an eye on them as they bake.
- After cooling, store extra croutons in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
- Get creative with spices – throw in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
These homemade croutons will add a crunch to your dishes and save food from being wasted. It’s a simple, but effective way to upcycle your bread and enhance your meals.
4. Bread Pudding With Mushrooms And Goat Cheese
Did you find yourself with some leftover focaccia? How about transforming it into a scrumptious bread pudding with mushrooms and goat cheese? It’s a heartwarming and savory way to give new life to your bread!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Leftover focaccia (cut into cubes)
- Fresh or wild mushrooms, sliced
- Goat cheese, crumbled
- Eggs
- Milk or cream
- Salt & pepper
Get Cooking:
- Preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with butter.
- Take those beautiful mushrooms you’ve got, and cook them in a pan until they’re golden brown. It’s amazing how something so simple can become so flavorful.
- Now, mix your focaccia pieces with the sautéed mushrooms in a bowl. Sprinkle in the goat cheese – oh, the creaminess it adds!
- In a different bowl, whisk together some eggs, milk (or cream for extra richness), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This mixture is what brings everything together.
- Pour that eggy blend over your focaccia and mushrooms, and give it a gentle stir. You want every piece to soak up some of that goodness.
Bake Time:
- Slide your dish into the oven and bake until it’s just set and has a lovely golden top. You’re shooting for about 30 minutes, but keep an eye on it.
And there you have it! A warm, comforting dish that makes your leftover focaccia feel new and exciting. It’s the perfect side or even a main if you’re feeling like treating yourself – because you deserve it!
5. Panzanella Salad
When your focaccia has seen better days, don’t let it go to waste. Transform it into Panzanella Salad, a tasty Tuscan dish that revives stale bread. Chop up your focaccia bread into bite-sized cubes and mix them with juicy, ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. For added flavor, toss in red onions and cucumbers.
Dressing:
- 3 parts olive oil
- 1 part balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Whisk these together until blended and pour over your salad. The bread soaks up the flavors, giving it a delicious second life.
Ingredients Table:
| Focaccia Cubes | Ripe Tomatoes | Basil Leaves | Red Onion | Cucumber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cups | 3 large, diced | 1/2 cup, torn | 1/4 cup, thinly sliced | 1/2 cup, chopped |
For your salad to really stand out, add some extras like olives or capers if you like a tangy twist. This salad is not just an answer to leftover bread but a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something refreshingly delicious.
Remember, Panzanella is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble it right before you’re set to dig in. Enjoy your hearty and wholesome creation!
6. Garlic Rosemary Sourdough Focaccia Croutons
Craving a crispy snack or a crunchy addition to your salads? Try making croutons out of your leftover garlic rosemary sourdough focaccia. You’re in for a treat!
Ingredients Needed:
- Leftover garlic rosemary sourdough focaccia
- Olive oil
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the focaccia bread into small cubes, around 1-inch in size.
- Toss these cubes lightly in olive oil to give them a light coating. If you feel like it, sprinkle a bit of salt over them to enhance the flavor.
- Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Cool the croutons to room temperature before you munch on them or toss them into your salad or soup.
These homemade croutons add a pop of flavor and texture that can really liven up your dishes. Plus, you’re making the most out of that delicious focaccia you loved so much. Give your soups and salads an easy upgrade, or just snack on them – they’re that good on their own!
7. Italian Sandwich
Transform your leftover focaccia into a delicious Italian sandwich. It’s an ideal lunch option that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Grab your focaccia and think of it as the canvas for your sandwich masterpiece.
- Ingredients: Start with fresh ingredients; think sliced mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and a touch of basil. You can also add meats such as prosciutto or salami if you’re in the mood for something heartier.
- Preparation: Slice your focaccia horizontally and layer your chosen ingredients inside. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds a zesty twist.
- Toasting (optional): For an extra crunch, toast your assembled sandwich in a pan or a sandwich press until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden.
This sandwich is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to use your bread to its full potential. Don’t shy away from experimenting with fillings; artichokes, roasted red peppers, and a spread of pesto can elevate your sandwich from good to great.
Enjoy your Italian sandwich al fresco to feel like you’re dining in the heart of Italy. Pair it with a side salad or crisp potato chips for a complete meal that’s both flavorful and fulfilling. Plus, it keeps your focaccia from going to waste – a win-win!
8. Ricotta, Honey, And Chili Flake Spread
Transform your leftover focaccia into a delightful treat by topping it with a creamy spread that’s sweet, spicy, and incredibly easy to make. Ricotta, a versatile cheese with a light texture, serves as the perfect base.
When you blend it with honey for a natural sweetness and add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little kick, you create a delectable contrast of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Here’s how you whip it up:
- Scoop 1 cup of ricotta cheese into a bowl.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the ricotta.
- Sprinkle a pinch (or more, to taste) of chili flakes onto the honey and ricotta mixture.
- Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined.
Spread a generous layer of this concoction onto a slice of focaccia. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a snack or serve it to your friends at a gathering, this ricotta, honey, and chili flake spread is sure to impress. You can even garnish with a touch of fresh herbs like basil or mint for an additional burst of freshness!
If you’re feeling adventurous, toast your slice of focaccia slightly before adding the spread to enjoy a delightful crunch that complements the creamy topping. Enjoy this unique combination, and watch your ordinary leftover focaccia become an extraordinary culinary creation!
9. Olive Oil Dip
Your focaccia doesn’t have to go to waste! Turn leftovers into a delicious dip, great for snacking or as a prelude to your next meal. Here’s a simple olive oil dip that will make your taste buds cheer.
Ingredients:
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Minced garlic, to taste
- A pinch of salt
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, and basil
Instructions:
- Pour olive oil into a small bowl. The amount you use depends on how much dip you want to make.
- Add minced garlic. The more you use, the bolder the flavor.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
- Mix in red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Chop fresh herbs and stir them in for a fresh flavor.
To serve, just tear your focaccia into pieces and dip away. It’s a perfect match: the soft, chewy bread captures the dip’s vibrant flavors. Enjoy it on a cozy night in or share with friends over a casual get-together.
If you want more inspiration for your olive oil dip, check out the creative ideas at Ambitious Kitchen.
Always remember, fresh ingredients elevate your dipping experience. So, go ahead, give your focaccia a second life with this quick and easy olive oil dip.
10. Muffuletta Sandwich
Transform your leftover focaccia into a scrumptious Muffuletta Sandwich, a New Orleans classic that’s perfect for a filling lunch. The key is a tasty olive salad, typically a mix of chopped olives, pickled cauliflower, carrots, and celery marinated in olive oil and herbs.
Ingredients:
- Focaccia bread
- Olive salad
- Sliced provolone cheese
- Genoa salami
- Ham
- Mortadella
Instructions:
- Cut a large circle from your focaccia and slice it horizontally.
- Spread a generous layer of olive salad on the bottom half.
- Layer slices of provolone, salami, ham, and mortadella on top.
- Add another layer of olive salad, if you like it extra flavorful.
- Place the top half of focaccia on, and press down gently.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly and let it rest, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Your delicious Muffuletta is ready when the olive oil has seeped into the bread, enriching it with flavor. Enjoy your homemade creation at a picnic or as a satisfying meal at home. If you’re looking for details on the classic recipe, check out the Muffuletta Sandwich as described by Serious Eats.
10 Creative Leftover Focaccia Recipes – Don’t Let Them Go To Waste
Ingredients
- Stovetop Pizza
- Turkey Pesto Sandwich
- Focaccia Croutons
- Bread Pudding With Mushrooms And Goat Cheese
- Panzanella Salad
- Garlic Rosemary Sourdough Focaccia Croutons
- Italian Sandwich
- Ricotta Honey, And Chili Flake Spread
- Olive Oil Dip
- Muffuletta Sandwich
Instructions
- Follow our instructions in the article
- Prepare with lots of love
- Enjoy your food!
- Feel free to share with us some pictures!
