rustic pizza

Rustic pizza is more than just a meal; it's a story filled with flavors, tradition, and moments spent with loved ones. This recipe perfectly combines the fluffy-crispy texture of the dough with rich, savory toppings, turning each serving into a true delicacy. I invite you to discover with me how to achieve a perfect pizza that you'll want to make again and again.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- 4-5 tablespoons warm milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredients for the toppings:
- 150 g salami (preferably high quality)
- 150 g chicken ham
- 100 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 100 g olives (green or black, to taste)
- 100 g mixed cheese (preferably mozzarella and cottage cheese)
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, to taste)
- Pizza sauce (or simply seasoned tomato sauce)
- 1 boiled egg (optional, for garnish)

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour and create a well in the center. This is where the yeast will start working its magic! Dissolve the yeast in the warm milk (not hot, as it will kill the yeast) and pour it into the well formed in the flour. Cover the yeast with flour and let it sit for 30 minutes in a warm place. Tip: It's important to use warm water or milk to activate the yeast, so don't skip this step!

2. Kneading:
After the resting time, start kneading the dough by adding the salt, egg, and oil. Knead vigorously for 5-10 minutes until you achieve an elastic and fluffy dough. If you find the dough too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much! It's essential for the dough to be soft and pliable.

3. Resting the dough:
After kneading, cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest for 30 minutes near a heat source (for example, on the stove or in a warm room). This time is crucial for developing flavors and texture.

4. Shaping the pizza bases:
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface, forming a sheet that is neither too thick nor too thin, according to your preferences. Tip: You can use a rolling pin or simply your hands for a rustic look.

5. Preparing the baking tray:
Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Place the pizza base in the tray and brush it with a little oil, followed by a generous layer of pizza sauce.

6. Adding the toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pizza base, then add the slices of salami, ham, mushrooms, olives, and diced bell pepper. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients! You can also add other vegetables or even some herbs for extra flavor. Finally, cover everything with a layer of grated cheese.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. Be careful! Every oven is different, so check the pizza every 5 minutes during the last 10 minutes of baking.

8. Serving:
Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into slices and, if desired, garnish with sliced boiled egg. Recommendation: Serve the pizza with a side of pizza sauce to enhance the flavors.

Practical tips and variations

- Ingredient substitutions: If you don't have dry yeast, you can use fresh yeast, considering that 25 g of fresh yeast is equivalent to one packet of dry yeast. Also, experiment with different types of cheese to find the perfect combination for your taste.

- Adding spices: You can add herbs like oregano, basil, or marjoram to the pizza sauce for an even more intense flavor.

- Vegetarian pizza: If you prefer a meatless option, omit the salami and ham and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.

- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of rustic pizza contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the toppings. It can provide carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a good choice for a satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

2. Does pizza freeze well?
Yes, pizza can be frozen, but it's recommended to bake it before freezing. Once cooked, let it cool, then slice and wrap it well in plastic wrap.

3. What drinks pair well with pizza?
Rustic pizza pairs wonderfully with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a natural tomato juice.

Rustic pizza is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that blends traditions and flavors. Once you make it, you'll want to include it in your daily menu! Experiment, adapt, and savor every bite with your loved ones!