Spinach pizza

Spinach Pizza: A Green Delight

Who would have thought that green could be so delicious? Spinach pizza is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of flavors and colors that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds. This recipe proves to be simple and quick, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients needed:

For the crispy dough:
- 300 g flour
- 75 g semolina
- 225 ml lukewarm water
- 7 g dry yeast (about one packet)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 280 g frozen spinach (about one bag)
- 250 g mozzarella
- 200 g tomato sauce (preferably Cirio)
- Herbs: thyme, basil, oregano (to taste)
- 100 g pizza cheese (optional, like parmesan)
- Cherry tomatoes (a few, for decoration)

The story behind the recipe

Spinach pizza is a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, bringing a touch of greenery to our table. Over time, pizza has earned its place in kitchens around the world, but adding spinach transforms it into a healthier choice, full of vitamins and minerals. This recipe is ideal for days when you want to indulge without feeling guilty!

Step by step: Preparing spinach pizza

1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil, mixing with a spatula. When the ingredients start to come together, knead the dough with your hands for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. A useful tip: if the dough is sticky, add a little flour.

2. Letting it rise
Shape the dough 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 (not directly on a heat source) for 30-40 minutes. The dough should double in size.

3. Preparing the sauce
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the sauce. In a small pot, add the tomato sauce and season with thyme, basil, and oregano. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes. This will be the delicious base of your pizza.

4. Preparing the spinach
In the meantime, place the frozen spinach in a skillet over medium heat. Cook it for a few minutes until it is completely thawed, then drain it well to remove excess water. This is an essential step to avoid a soggy pizza.

5. Assembling the pizza
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured work surface using a rolling pin. Place it in a tray lined with parchment paper. Prick the dough with a fork here and there to prevent air bubbles from forming. Bake it in the preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes.

6. Adding the ingredients
Remove the crust from the oven and spread the prepared tomato sauce over it. Sprinkle the well-drained spinach, followed by the grated mozzarella. If you want an extra flavor boost, add the cheese mix as well. Finally, place halved cherry tomatoes on top for an attractive presentation.

7. Baking the pizza
Put the pizza back in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, and the edges of the crust are crispy. Another trick: for an even crispier crust, you can bake the pizza on a pizza stone.

8. Serving
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, perhaps alongside a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade. This combination will add a note of freshness and balance the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce.

Useful tips:
- If you don’t have frozen spinach, you can use fresh spinach. Sauté it briefly in a skillet until it wilts, then drain it.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to add variety to your pizza.
- If you like it spicy, add a little chopped chili pepper to the tomato sauce.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use Cheddar or Gouda cheese for a different taste.

2. How can I store the pizza?
The pizza can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Is spinach pizza healthy?
Yes, spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, and combined with cheese and tomato sauce, you get a balanced meal.

4. How can I make the dough healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for higher fiber content.

Spinach pizza is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal, full of vitamins. Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking and explore the magic of this dish! Enjoy your meal!