Salami pizza

Salami Pizza: An Unforgettable Culinary Experience

Who doesn't love a delicious pizza with a crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and flavors that make your mouth water? Salami pizza is a dish that brings together all these elements and, in addition, offers a wonderful opportunity to have fun in the kitchen. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create two perfectly delicious pizzas, ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 250 g whole wheat flour
- 250 g white flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 340 ml warm water

*For the sauce:*
- 150 ml tomato sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 250 g sliced salami
- 2 red onions, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 fresh tomato, sliced
- 200 g grated cheese

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Activating the yeast: Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine 100 ml of warm water with a teaspoon of sugar. Add the dry yeast and let it rise for 10-15 minutes. You will notice the mixture becoming frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the white and whole wheat flour with the salt. Add the risen yeast to the flour, then start mixing by hand, gradually adding the rest of the warm water. It’s important to add the water gradually to control the consistency of the dough.

3. Kneading: Once all the ingredients are mixed, begin kneading the dough with your hands. Add the olive oil towards the end of the kneading. Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This process is essential for achieving a perfect pizza crust.

4. Let the dough rise: Form a ball with the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

5. Preparing the sauce: While the dough is rising, you can prepare the sauce. In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well to blend the flavors.

6. Forming the pizza: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a circular shape, about 30 cm in diameter. Place each pizza on a greased baking tray.

7. Pre-baking the crusts: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the plain dough for 10 minutes. This step helps achieve a crispy crust.

8. Adding the toppings: Remove the pizzas from the oven. Spread each crust with the previously prepared tomato sauce. Add the onion slices, a generous layer of grated cheese, the salami slices, the sliced bell pepper, and finally, the tomato slices. Sprinkle more salt and pepper on top.

9. Final baking: Return the pizza to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the edges of the pizza are crispy.

10. Serving: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, alongside a chili sauce or a yogurt garlic sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Useful tips and tricks:

- Choosing the flour: Whole wheat flour adds a richer flavor and an interesting texture to the dough. If you prefer, you can use only white flour for a lighter crust.
- Fresh yeast: If you have fresh yeast, use 25 g instead of dry yeast. Mix it with warm water and sugar to activate it.
- Varied toppings: You can customize the pizza by adding olives, mushrooms, or even anchovies for a more intense flavor.
- Cheese variations: Instead of cheese, you can use mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Salami pizza is a delicious choice that offers protein from the salami and calcium from the cheese. Whole wheat flour adds fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. However, moderate consumption is recommended, considering the calorie content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace salami with ham, chicken, or even beef.
2. What can I do with leftover dough? You can freeze the unused dough, and later thaw it and use it for pizza or buns.
3. How can I make the pizza lighter? Use more whole wheat flour and reduce the amount of cheese or salami.

Serving suggestions:
Salami pizza pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a glass of red wine. You can also add a yogurt sauce with herbs for a refreshing contrast.

In conclusion, this salami pizza recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a delicious, simple, and flavorful meal. Don't forget to have fun in the cooking process and experiment with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy your meal!