Pizza with salami and ham

Pizza with Salami and Ham: A Homemade Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-27 minutes
Number of servings: 2-3 servings (for a 30 cm tray)

Pizza is more than just a simple dish; it is an experience that brings people together. This salami and ham pizza recipe is quick, simple, and delicious, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s discover together how to achieve a thin and crispy crust topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and delicious ingredients.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g white flour (preferably type 00 for a finer texture)
- 100 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 10-15 g fresh yeast

For the tomato sauce:
- A can of tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- A pinch of chili paste (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon agave syrup or honey (for a balanced taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the pizza topping:
- 150 g grated cheese
- Slices of dry salami and ham (quantity can vary according to preference)
- Pitted black olives, sliced (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the crumbled yeast. Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until a dough forms.
Practical tips: Use warm water, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. If you want a more flavorful dough, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as oregano or rosemary.

Step 2: Proofing the dough
Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic. Then, shape it into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. Don’t worry if it doesn’t rise too much, for a thin crust pizza, we don’t need a highly risen dough.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato sauce
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the sauce. In a blender or food processor, add the canned tomatoes, basil leaves, chili paste, agave syrup, salt, and pepper. Pulse until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add the olive oil and mix again.
Note: If you have leftover sauce, you can use it as ketchup for other dishes.

Step 4: Shaping the pizza
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured work surface until you achieve a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. Place it in the greased pizza tray.
Tips: Use a rolling pin to achieve an even shape. If you prefer a crust with crunchier edges, you can gently fold the edges of the dough.

Step 5: Assembling the pizza
Spread 4-5 tablespoons of tomato sauce over the surface of the dough, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the sauce, then add the slices of salami and ham as you like. If desired, top with sliced black olives.
Suggestion: You can also add some slices of bell pepper or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.

Step 6: Baking the pizza
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pizza tray in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the cheese melts.
Important: Monitor the pizza in the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serving
Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, perhaps with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil on top.
Personal story: I fondly remember how, as a child, I made pizza with my grandmother. It was a fun-filled activity, and each ingredient had a story.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of salami and ham pizza contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of ingredients used. It provides carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the meat and cheese, as well as vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and herbs. It is important to consume pizza in moderation, but you can include it in your diet, especially if you make it at home, thus controlling the ingredients.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace salami and ham with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey ham. You can also add fresh vegetables, such as onion, bell pepper, or mushrooms, to create a vegetarian pizza.
Another delicious option is to use feta cheese instead of cheese, giving it a Mediterranean touch.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast; make sure to use about 7 g, as it is more concentrated.

2. How can I make the pizza healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour for the dough and replace salami and ham with leaner ingredients, such as chicken or vegetables.

3. What drinks pair well with pizza?
A salami and ham pizza pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or a pale lager. Additionally, a cold tea with lemon can be a refreshing choice.

Conclusion
Pizza with salami and ham is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will remind you of beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Try making it at home and enjoy the final result. Whether you savor it alone or share it with loved ones, this pizza will surely become a favorite recipe in your home. Enjoy your meal!