Prosciutto pizza

Prosciutto Pizza: A Savory Italian Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 60-65 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of delicious pizzas! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a prosciutto pizza, an irresistible combination of flavors that will bring a touch of Italian authenticity straight to your table. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a party with friends, this recipe is simple, quick, and full of taste.

The History of Prosciutto Pizza

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of Italian regions. Prosciutto pizza originates from the classic combination of fresh dough, tomato sauce, and a variety of aromatic ingredients. Prosciutto, the dry-cured ham, offers a rich and salty flavor, perfectly complemented by melted cheese. This pizza is a perfect example of culinary simplicity and elegance.

Necessary Ingredients

- 450 g pizza dough (preferably fresh)
- 100 g prosciutto crudo (or prosciutto cotto if you prefer a cooked version)
- 100 g dried salami (a quality option for an authentic taste)
- 100 g grated cheese (choose a cheese with a high-fat percentage for perfect melting)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (or tomato purée)
- 3 tablespoons water
- Olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- Optional: black or green olives (pitted, for added flavor) and boiled corn kernels

Practical Tips for Your Ingredients

1. Pizza dough: If you want to save time, you can use frozen pizza dough. Make sure it's of good quality and follow the defrosting instructions.
2. Prosciutto: Buy prosciutto from a trusted butcher or a specialty store to ensure you have an authentic product with a rich taste.
3. Cheese: Choose a cheese with a high-fat content, such as mozzarella or aged cheese, for a creamy texture and intense flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the dough: Start by preheating the oven to 220°C. Grease a pizza pan with a little olive oil to prevent the dough from sticking. If using fresh pizza dough, spread it evenly in the pan, ensuring the edges are slightly thicker to hold the toppings.

2. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of tomato paste with 3 tablespoons of water. This simple sauce will add a unique flavor to your pizza. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough in the pan, covering the entire surface.

3. Add the toppings: Place slices of dried salami and prosciutto crudo over the sauce. Make sure they are evenly distributed so you can enjoy every bite.

4. Finalizing the pizza: Sprinkle the grated cheese over all the ingredients. If desired, you can add olives and boiled corn kernels for extra texture and flavor.

5. Baking the pizza: Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the pizza bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the dough turns golden and crispy, and the cheese melts and browns nicely.

6. Serving: Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with a fresh salad or a well-chilled glass of white wine.

Variations and Unique Suggestions

- Vegetarian pizza: You can transform this recipe into a vegetarian one by omitting prosciutto and salami and adding vegetables such as peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spicy pizza: If you like it spicy, add some slices of chili pepper or chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Serving: Add a touch of freshness by serving the pizza with a salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar.

Nutritional Benefits

Prosciutto pizza is a good source of protein, thanks to the prosciutto and salami. The cheese adds calcium, while the tomato sauce provides essential antioxidants. However, it is advisable to consume pizza in moderation, considering the fat and salt content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sausages or meats, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store pizza for the next day?
Keep the pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Is pizza suitable for a diet?
Depending on the ingredients used, pizza can be integrated into a balanced diet. Choose healthier ingredients and consume in moderation.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Prosciutto pizza is an excellent choice for special occasions as well as for a quick and delicious dinner. Enjoy every bite and savor the authentic flavors of Italy!