Caramelized Onion & Apple Focaccia

Makes 20 pieces

This version of the classic Italian flatbread is here served as an hors d'oeuvre, but you can also serve it as a bread to go along with a meal. Cut it into larger slices and serve with a delicious homemade soup.

• 1 package (1/4 oz) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 11/2 cups warm (105 to 115 degrees) water
• 21/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 21/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 TB Whole Foods Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 3 pounds Spanish onions, cut in eighths and thickly sliced
• 1 pound apples, quartered, cored, and thinly sliced

Prep Time: 1 hour 45 minutes plus rising time

1. In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast and sugar over 1/2 cup of warm water. Let stand 5 minutes or until foamy. Stir in all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, 6 TB of Parmesan, 11/2 tsp salt, and cayenne pepper until blended. Stir in 3 TB of olive oil and remaining 1 cup warm water until well combined. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
2. Transfer to a lightly oiled large bowl, turning the dough to coat. Cover and let stand 1 hour in a warm draft-free spot until doubled.
3. Meanwhile, in large nonstick Dutch oven or flameproof casserole, heat remaining 1 TB oil over low heat. Add onions and remaining 1 tsp salt and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 hour or until onions are very soft and golden brown. Set aside to cool to room temperature. Punch dough down, transfer to a lightly oiled jelly-roll pan or large cookie sheet and pat dough out to 15" by 11" rectangle. Cover and let stand 45 minutes or until puffed and well risen.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F. Sprinkle apples, caramelized onions, and remaining 2 TB Parmesan over dough. Cover and let rise 30 minutes. Uncover and bake on the lowest level of the onion for 25 minutes until crust is golden brown and crisp. Cut into 20 pieces.

Nutrition Facts

Per piece: 152 calories, 4g total fat, 0.9g saturated fat, 2.3g monounsaturated fat, 0.4g polyunsaturated fat, 3g dietary fiber, 4g protein, 26g carbohydrate, 2mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium
Good source of: fiber, thiamin, folate, manganese, selenium, quercetin