Eco pizza

Eco Pizza: A delicious and healthy recipe for lovers of authentic flavors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction
Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, but few know it can also be a healthy choice! In this Eco Pizza recipe, we combine natural and nutritious ingredients to create a fluffy dough that supports a delicious filling of cold cuts and cheeses. Let’s discover together the steps to prepare a tasty pizza that will not only delight your taste buds but also provide nutritional benefits.

Necessary Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably whole grain for a healthier option)
- 2 eggs (preferably organic, from free-range hens)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (opt for fresh country-style sour cream)
- 1 cup milk (about 200 ml, preferably cow's or plant-based milk, like almond milk)
- 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust the dough consistency)
- Fresh yeast (about 25 g or a packet of dry yeast)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to activate the yeast)
- Salt (to taste)

For the filling:
- 150 g homemade sausage (or another type of cold cut, preferably without preservatives)
- 150 g homemade ham (or another type of smoked meat)
- 150 g pork neck (or another type of meat of your choice)
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 100 ml tomato juice (or a few tablespoons of homemade tomato paste)
- 100 g grated cheese (sheep cheese or mozzarella, for a perfect texture)
- Pepper and spices to taste (oregano, basil, garlic powder)

Step by Step for a Perfect Result
1. Activating the yeast
Start by dissolving the yeast in a cup with 2-3 tablespoons of warm milk and add the teaspoon of sugar. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes or until you see the yeast forming bubbles. This will be the base of your dough, so make sure it is activated correctly!

2. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour, salt, the 2 eggs, and the sour cream. Add the activated yeast mixture and, if needed, a little water to achieve the right texture. Start kneading the dough with your hands until it pulls away from the bowl and becomes elastic. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy dough, so don’t rush!

3. Proofing the dough
Form a ball from the dough, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in size. Use this time to prepare your filling ingredients.

4. Preparing the filling
While the dough is rising, slice the cold cuts thinly. You can use your favorite meat or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. In a bowl, beat the 2 eggs with the sour cream, tomato juice, and chosen spices until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

5. Assembling the pizza
After the dough has risen, grease a baking tray with butter or olive oil. Roll out the dough evenly in the tray, making sure it reaches the edges. Place the slices of cold cuts on the dough, then pour the egg and sour cream mixture evenly over it.

6. Adding the cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheese over the filling to achieve a golden and delicious crust.

7. Baking the pizza
Preheat the oven to 180°C and let the pizza bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden and crispy. In the last 5 minutes, you can activate the grill function for an even browner crust.

Serving and Accompaniment Suggestions
Serve the pizza hot, alongside a tomato sauce or pizza sauce, and don’t hesitate to add a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. A green salad on the side would perfectly complete the meal, providing a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits and Calories
This Eco Pizza is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a tasty dish without sacrificing health. Whole grain flour brings fiber, and homemade cold cuts are lower in preservatives than store-bought ones. On the other hand, cheese provides essential calcium and proteins. Approximately, one serving of pizza contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Possible Variations
You can experiment with different types of flour, such as almond or oat flour, for a gluten-free version. Replace the cold cuts with roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast instead of fresh. You will need about 7 g of dry yeast, which you can add directly to the flour.

2. How can I store the pizza?
Pizza can be stored in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

3. What improvements can I bring to the recipe?
Experiment with fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, or different cheeses for an explosion of flavors.

Conclusion
This Eco Pizza recipe is not just a delicious choice but also an opportunity to enjoy cooking and experiment with healthy ingredients. So, let’s enjoy every step of preparing this pizza, turning cooking into a true culinary art. Bon appétit!