Pizza

Homemade Pizza with Custom Toppings

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Who can resist a slice of steaming pizza with a crispy crust and delicious toppings? This recipe is not just a simple pizza; it's a moment to connect with loved ones, where kids can join in and have fun in the kitchen. I will share the steps to achieve the perfect dough, along with some tips and variations that will make it truly special.

A bit of history: Pizza is a dish with a long-standing tradition, known for its versatility. Regardless of the chosen toppings, pizza remains a symbol of conviviality, bringing family and friends together. Every family has its own pizza recipe, and today, we will create one that will surely become your favorite!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably type 00 for a fine texture)
- 1 tablespoon of dry yeast or a cube of fresh yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Warm water (about 300 ml, but adjust according to the type of flour)
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil (for a richer flavor)

For the toppings:
- 150-200 g ketchup (or homemade tomato sauce for extra flavor)
- 100 g salami, sausages, or ham (choose your favorite)
- 100 g grated cheese (preferably a cheese with a higher fat content for better melting)
- 100 g olives (black or green, depending on your preferences)
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green for a pop of color)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour to remove any lumps and improve the texture of the dough. Add the dry yeast (or crumbled fresh yeast) and salt. It is important not to add the salt directly over the yeast, as it can inhibit the yeast's activity.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and gradually pour in the warm water. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until the dough starts to come together. Then, add the olive oil and continue to knead.

Step 3: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough is ready when it becomes elastic and easily pulls away from your hands. If it is too sticky, add a little flour at a time, but be careful not to overdo it, as a dry dough will lead to a less fluffy pizza.

Step 4: Rest the dough
Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a bowl greased with a little oil, and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the pizza base
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured work surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin or your hands, depending on your preference, until you achieve a circular or rectangular shape, depending on the pizza tray you are using. Place the dough in a greased tray or one lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Assemble the toppings
Spread the dough with ketchup, leaving a little space at the edges for a crispy crust. Then, add the sliced meats, olives, diced bell pepper, and finally, the grated cheese. Each ingredient adds a note of flavor, and the combinations are endless!

Step 7: Bake
Preheat the oven to 220 °C (or the maximum temperature your oven allows). Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. This is the perfect time to check the aroma and let yourself be tempted by the enticing smell!

Step 8: Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it with garlic sauce or a fresh salad as a side. A warm slice of pizza, paired with a glass of natural juice or a cold beer, is the perfect combination for a relaxing family evening.

Practical tips
- Use quality flour for better dough. Type 00 is ideal for pizza, but any wheat flour works.
- If you prefer a thinner crust, roll out the dough more. If you like a thicker crust, leave it fluffier.
- Experiment with toppings! Add fresh vegetables, anchovies, mushrooms, or even seafood for a different taste.
- You can prepare the dough a day in advance, leaving it in the refrigerator. Before using it, let it come to room temperature.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 300-400 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g

Frequently asked questions
1. What can I use instead of yeast?
You can use baking powder, but it won't have the same fluffy texture. In this case, you will need an acidic ingredient to activate the baking powder, such as yogurt or lemon juice.

2. How can I make the pizza healthier?
Opt for whole wheat flour instead of white flour and use fresh vegetables as toppings. Also, limit the amount of cheese.

3. How can I store pizza?
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispiness.

Now that you have the complete recipe, all that's left is to put on your apron and let your imagination run wild! Homemade pizza is more than just a dish; it’s an opportunity to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Enjoy!