Pizza

Homemade pizza with fresh ingredients: a simple and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a homemade pizza recipe that reminds you of childhood moments when your aunt prepared the tastiest dishes for you, you are in the right place! This pizza recipe is easy to make and is perfect for a relaxing evening at home or to impress friends. You will discover how to achieve a fluffy dough and a savory topping full of flavor.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (including rising time)
Number of servings: 2 large pizzas

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300-400 g flour (type 000 for a finer texture)
- 10 g dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 15 g salt
- 200 ml warm water (not hot, to activate the yeast)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to feed the yeast)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a rich flavor and a crispy crust)

For the topping:
- 100 g salami (you can choose homemade salami for an authentic taste)
- 50 g black olives, pitted
- 50 g canned mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms for extra flavor)
- 2-3 slices of red bell pepper (or chili for those who prefer a spicier taste)
- 100 g grated cheese (choose a cheese with a high-fat content for nice melting)
- a few pieces of telemea cheese (optional, for a salty and creamy taste)
- 50 g tomato sauce (or your favorite pizza sauce)
- 2-3 tablespoons ketchup (for a sweet-sour note)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by preparing the pizza dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt. This combination will ensure a well-structured dough. In a glass, dissolve the yeast with sugar in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is essential, as the activated yeast will help the dough rise.

Pour the yeast mixture over the flour and, using a wooden spoon, mix until the ingredients are homogeneous. Gradually add the olive oil, continuing to knead with your hands until you obtain an elastic and smooth dough. It is important to knead well to develop the gluten, which will provide the perfect texture for the dough.

Step 2: Dough rising
After kneading the dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in volume. You could place it in a preheated oven at 30°C to speed up the process.

Step 3: Prepare the sauce
Meanwhile, you can prepare the sauce. In a pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the tomato sauce and ketchup together for a few minutes over medium heat. Add salt to taste. This sauce will add a layer of moisture and flavor to your pizza.

Step 4: Form the pizza
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts (if you are using a smaller tray, you can even make a smaller pizza). On a lightly floured working surface, take a piece of dough and roll it directly in the tray lined with baking paper. Use your hands to form an even layer about 2 cm thick. Cover again with a towel and let it rise for another 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add the toppings
After the dough has risen again, spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the pizza. Then, add the slices of salami, mushrooms, olives, and red pepper. Don’t forget to sprinkle the grated cheese and parmesan on top. These cheeses will create a golden and appetizing crust.

Step 6: Bake the pizza
Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes or until the crust turns golden and crispy. You will smell a delicious aroma throughout the house, and your friends and family will eagerly await to taste this homemade pizza.

Step 7: Serve
After the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes, then cut it into slices and serve it warm. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as lemonade or craft beer.

Tips and tricks

1. Topping variations: Experiment with different toppings, such as chili, pineapple, tuna, or fresh vegetables. You can even use goat cheese for a more intense flavor.

2. The dough: If you prefer a crispier pizza, you can let the dough rise for less time or roll it out thinner.

3. Tomato sauce: You can add spices like oregano, basil, or garlic to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

4. Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of pizza (about 1/8 of a pizza) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the toppings. Homemade pizza gives you the option to control the ingredients and quantities, making it a healthier option than restaurant pizza.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead, leaving it in the fridge. Make sure to let it reach room temperature before using it.

- What type of flour is ideal for pizza?
Type 00 flour is ideal for pizza, but you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

- Can I use vegan cheese?
Absolutely! There are many vegan cheese options available on the market that melt well and add a delicious taste.

In conclusion, this homemade pizza recipe is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to enjoy special moments with loved ones. I invite you to try this recipe and adapt it to your own preference! Enjoy!