Homemade Pizza

Homemade Pizza: The Authentic Taste of Dishes Made with Love

Nothing compares to the aroma of a homemade pizza fresh out of the oven, with fluffy dough and delicious toppings! Making a pizza is an art in itself, but the process becomes truly enjoyable when done with love and passion. This homemade pizza recipe is simple and full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, we offer you some variation suggestions so you can customize the pizza to your liking. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 2 large pizzas (square trays)

Ingredients for the dough:
- 800 g of flour
- 7 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 350 ml of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt

Ingredients for the pizza:
- 300 g of tomato paste (preferably with basil)
- 200 g of cherry tomatoes
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salami, olives, corn, red peppers (quantities may vary according to preference)
- 600 g of cheese

Preparing the dough

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, add the warm water, sugar, and the cube of fresh yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This is an essential step to activate the yeast, which will make the dough rise fluffy.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Once the yeast has risen, add the mixture to the bowl with flour. Use a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients, adding water if necessary, until you obtain a homogeneous dough.

3. Kneading: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you feel the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Fermentation: Place the dough in a bowl covered with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for obtaining a fluffy pizza.

Preparing the pizza

1. Dividing the dough: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Use a rolling pin to stretch each piece of dough into the shape of the tray in which you will bake the pizza. If using a square tray, ensure the dough is evenly spread across the entire surface.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, mix the tomato paste with the olive oil. This sauce will add extra flavor to your pizza. If you prefer, you can add additional herbs such as oregano or basil for an even more intense taste.

3. Assembling the pizza: Spread the tomato sauce over each dough, covering evenly. Then, add slices of salami, olives, corn, and diced red peppers. Don't forget to generously sprinkle grated cheese on top for a delicious golden crust.

4. Decorating: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them on top of the cheese. They will add a touch of freshness and color to your pizza.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C (or 200°C for convection ovens). If using a regular tray, I recommend covering the tray with aluminum foil to prevent sticking. Bake the pizza for 30 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Serving the pizza

Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into slices. Serve it warm alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast. A bottle of wine or fresh lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Helpful tips and variations

- Topping variations: You can experiment with various ingredients. Add mushrooms, onions, pineapple, or even seafood for a gourmet pizza.
- Dough: If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also make a cauliflower crust pizza for a low-carb dish.
- Dough care: If you have time, let the dough ferment overnight in the fridge. This will enhance the flavor and texture.
- Frequently asked questions: What can I do if the dough doesn't rise? Make sure the yeast is fresh and that the water used is warm, not hot. Also, the place where you let the dough rise should be warm and humid.

Nutritional benefits

Homemade pizza can be a healthy option depending on the chosen ingredients. Whole wheat flour provides fiber, and fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals. You can also reduce the amount of cheese to make the pizza lighter. This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, essential for a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Cooking a homemade pizza is a satisfying experience that brings family and friends together. This simple recipe will help you create a delicious pizza that everyone will enjoy. Whether you prefer a pizza with many toppings or a minimalist version with just a few ingredients, the secret lies in the love you put into the preparation. Enjoy your meal!