Mediterranean Roasted Garlic and Herb Flatbread with Parmesan
This Mediterranean Roasted Garlic and Herb Flatbread with Parmesan is the perfect balance of rustic charm and rich flavor. The golden flatbread is crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and infused with olive oil and herbs. The roasted garlic gives it a mellow, buttery depth, while Parmesan adds a salty, savory finish. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or base for dips and spreads, this flatbread captures the essence of Mediterranean simplicity — wholesome ingredients, fragrant herbs, and a touch of indulgence.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Flatbread:
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp (5 g) baking powder
½ tsp (2 g) salt
¾ cup (180 ml) warm water
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
For the Topping:
1 head of garlic
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
2 tbsp (15 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp (2 g) dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
1 tbsp (3 g) chopped fresh parsley
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Roast the garlic:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for 30–35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted cloves from their skins and mash them into a paste.
Prepare the flatbread dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead gently for 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Rest the dough:
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10–15 minutes to relax the gluten — this makes it easier to roll out.
Roll out the dough:
Divide into two portions for easier handling. Roll each one into a rough oval or circle, about ¼ inch thick.
Preheat the pan or oven:
You can either cook the flatbread on a hot skillet over medium-high heat or bake it in the oven at 425°F (220°C) on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone.
Cook the flatbread:
If using a skillet, cook each side for 2–3 minutes until puffed and lightly browned. If baking, bake for 8–10 minutes until golden.
Prepare the topping:
Mix mashed roasted garlic with olive oil, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the warm flatbread.
Finish with Parmesan and parsley:
Sprinkle Parmesan and chopped parsley on top. Slice and serve warm.
Tips
Use warm water—not hot: Hot water can kill the baking powder’s rise, while cold water makes the dough harder to knead.
Don’t overwork the dough: Gentle kneading keeps it soft and prevents toughness.
Resting matters: The 10–15 minute rest helps the dough roll out smoothly without springing back.
Roast garlic ahead: Roasted garlic can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge for quick use.
Pan vs. oven: The skillet method gives a slightly charred, rustic finish; baking produces even crispness.
Brush while warm: Applying the garlic-herb oil on warm bread helps it soak into the surface.
Fresh herbs last: Add parsley or basil after cooking to keep their flavor bright.
For extra crunch: Brush with a little olive oil before baking and sprinkle a touch of coarse salt.
Variations
Cheesy upgrade: Add mozzarella or crumbled feta on top for extra richness.
Whole-wheat version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a nutty flavor.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of chili oil to the topping mix.
Mediterranean toppings: Try adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions.
Flatbread pizza: Use the baked flatbread as a base for hummus, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.
Garlic butter version: Mix the roasted garlic with melted butter instead of olive oil for a more decadent flavor.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend and add a bit more olive oil for elasticity.
Herb swap: Replace Italian herbs with za’atar or rosemary for a regional twist.
Q&A
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours, covered tightly. Bring it to room temperature before rolling.
Q: Can I freeze flatbread?
A: Absolutely. Cook and cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have an oven?
A: The skillet method works perfectly — just use a non-stick or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
Q: Can I use minced raw garlic instead of roasted?
A: You can, but roasted garlic gives a sweeter, milder flavor. Raw garlic will be sharper and more intense.
Q: What goes well with this flatbread?
A: Serve alongside soups, salads, or dips like hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes, just omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approx.)
Calories: 280
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 1 g
Sodium: 270 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Roasted Garlic and Herb Flatbread with Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful recipe that transforms basic pantry ingredients into something truly special. The roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness, the Parmesan provides a salty bite, and the herbs tie everything together with Mediterranean flair. Serve it warm as an appetizer, side, or snack — it’s rustic, aromatic, and deliciously versatile. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.