1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. If you’re using whole wheat flour, mix it in here as well. I like to whisk these dry ingredients together first to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil (if using) to the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or your hand, mix until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks messy—that’s exactly what you want!
3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Leave it on the counter to rise for 12 to 18 hours. I usually start this in the evening and bake the next day, which fits perfectly into my busy schedule.
4. After the dough has risen and looks bubbly and expanded, generously flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out gently and fold it over on itself a couple of times to shape it into a rough ball. Resist the urge to knead—it’s no-knead after all!
5. Place the dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a heavy, lidded Dutch oven or oven-safe pot inside the oven during preheating.
6. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Using the parchment paper, lift the dough ball and place it inside. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crusty. If you like a darker crust, you can leave it in a few minutes longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. I know it’s tempting to cut in right away, but trust me—letting it rest keeps the crumb from getting gummy.

I remember the first time I tried this method—no kneading, just a long slow rise—and honestly, I was skeptical. But the result was a crusty, airy bread that made my kitchen smell like a bakery and my family smile from ear to ear. And the best part? No flour on the floor from frantic kneading or wrists begging for mercy.