LEMON-THYME FOCACCIA ROLLS

Steps:

• Combine the water and yeast in a mixing bowl and stir until the yeast dissolves. Stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 cup of flour. Stir in a second cup of flour, the thyme, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Sprinkle some of the remaining flour over a work surface and your hands. Scrape the dough out of the bowl and onto the work surface. Gradually knead in additional flour, until the dough no longer feels sticky.
• Lightly oil a large bowl. Shape the dough into a ball and roll it in the bowl to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and set in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour. Punch the dough down and knead it for about 1 minute. Return the dough to the bowl and let rise until doubled again, about 45 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Shape them into flattened rounds, about 4 to 4 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a well-greased baking sheet, cover with a towel and let stand for 15 minutes. Brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Bake until lightly browned, about 30 minutes. Let cool.