Pizza with ham and peppers

Ham and Pepper Pizza: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Recipe

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes around the world, often associated with moments of conviviality and fun. Its history is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions, where simple dough and fresh ingredients have transformed into gastronomic works of art. Today, I invite you to prepare together a ham and pepper pizza, a delicious and colorful combination that will delight the taste buds of family and friends.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients for the dough:
- 220 g flour (preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100 ml warm water (ideally between 30-40°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a more intense flavor)

Ingredients for the topping:
- 6 slices of ham (preferably cooked ham or prosciutto)
- ½ yellow bell pepper (for a sweet note)
- ½ orange bell pepper (for a vibrant color)
- 6 black olives (pitted, to avoid unpleasant surprises)
- 2 fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 100 g cheese (grated or sliced thinly)
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce or ketchup (for a rich taste)

Preparation steps:

1. Making the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. These dry ingredients will form the base of the dough. Make sure the yeast and salt do not come into direct contact, as salt can inhibit yeast activity.

2. Adding the water: Gradually add the warm water over the flour mixture. Start mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands. Add the olive oil, which will give the dough a richer flavor.

3. Kneading: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, do not hesitate to add a little more flour.

4. Letting the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. This process is essential for obtaining a fluffy and airy pizza.

5. Preparing the topping: While the dough is rising, prepare the topping ingredients. Cut the peppers into thin strips, slice the mushrooms, and cut the ham into strips. These ingredients will add not only flavor but also an attractive presentation.

6. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has risen, grease a baking tray with oil or parchment paper. Roll out the dough into a round shape, about 26 cm in diameter. You can use a rolling pin or simply your hands, making sure the edges are slightly higher to hold the topping.

7. Adding the sauce: Spread the tomato sauce or ketchup over the crust, ensuring you cover the surface evenly.

8. Arranging the topping: Place the strips of ham, peppers, mushrooms, and olives on the pizza crust. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, which will melt and form a delicious crust.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and the cheese has melted and browned.

10. Serving: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It can be served plain or with a yogurt or mayonnaise dip on the side.

Useful tips:
- If you want a crispier pizza, you can bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor.
- Replace the ham with cooked chicken breast or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits:
Ham and pepper pizza provides a good source of protein from the ham and cheese, as well as vitamins and minerals from the peppers and mushrooms. Using fresh ingredients, the pizza becomes a balanced meal, especially if served with a green salad.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount of water as whole wheat flour absorbs more water.

2. How can I make gluten-free pizza?
Try a gluten-free flour specifically designed for pizza or a mix of rice and tapioca flour.

3. What drinks pair well with this pizza?
Ham and pepper pizza pairs well with a dry white wine or a refreshing pale beer. Additionally, a citrus cocktail can add a fresh note to the meal.

This ham and pepper pizza recipe is not only simple and quick but also an opportunity to express your creativity in the kitchen. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and prepare a delicious pizza that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!