In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add 1/2 tablespoon of yeast and 1/4 teaspoon of sugar to 1/2 cup of warm water. Stir together.
Using the dough attachment, add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and knead on low setting until blended, approx. 5-10 minutes.
Add 1 cup of warm water and continue to knead until firm and smooth, approx. 15 minutes.
Remove from mixing bowl and place on a floured surface.
Knead the dough by hand for 1-2 minutes and shape into round ball.
Cover with a paper towel for 30 minutes or until the dough has risen to double its size.
Line a deep baking pan with parchment paper. Add 1/4 tablespoon of olive oil to the parchment paper. Shape into loaf and place in greased baking pan, turn several times to coat.
To make two loaves as shown, simply double the recipe and divide the dough in half to form two separate loaves.
Using scissors, add small cuts along the top as shown.
Cover with paper towel and let rest approx. 30 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place pan on the top wire rack. Bake for 30 minutes or until surface is golden.
Remove and let cool before removing from pan. Serve warm or cool.