Pizza

Perfect homemade pizza: a quick and simple delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a delicious pizza with a crispy crust and fresh toppings? In this simple recipe, I will guide you step by step to make a homemade pizza that will impress everyone. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this quick dish will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour
- 1/2 cube of fresh yeast (about 20 g)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Ingredients for the topping:
- 200 ml tomato sauce (can be homemade or store-bought)
- 200 g shredded mozzarella
- 100 g salami or ham (optional)
- 1 bell pepper (optional)
- 1 red onion (optional)
- Spices: oregano, basil, salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the yeast
Start by dissolving half of the yeast cube in a tablespoon of sugar, then adding two tablespoons of lukewarm milk. Let the yeast ferment for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy and airy pizza.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
After the yeast has risen, add the rest of the lukewarm milk, the beaten egg, olive oil, and salt. Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If you like, you can also add some grated parmesan for extra flavor.

Step 3: Kneading the dough
On a clean surface, knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is the moment to add a little flour if the dough is too sticky. Once kneaded, form a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, covering it with a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Shaping the pizza
After the dough has risen, divide it into four equal portions, rolling each piece out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use your fingers to form slightly thicker edges, which will help hold the toppings.

Step 5: Adding the toppings
Spread an even layer of tomato sauce on each pizza, then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella. Add your favorite toppings, such as slices of salami, bell pepper, and red onion. These will not only add flavor but also an attractive look.

Step 6: Baking the pizza
Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place the pizza tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust becomes golden and crispy. A trick to achieve an even crispier crust is to use a pizza stone if you have one.

Step 7: Serving
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. You can sprinkle fresh oregano or basil for extra flavor. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a glass of white wine, for a perfect meal.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or brie, for new flavors.
- Replace the tomato sauce with pesto sauce or a mix of cheese and sour cream for a white pizza.
- Add grilled vegetables or olives for a Mediterranean taste.

This homemade pizza recipe is not only simple but also very versatile, allowing you to create unique topping combinations that suit your tastes. Enjoy every slice and savor the delight of your homemade creation!

 Ingredients: For the dough: one cup of milk, half a cup of oil, one egg, half a cube of yeast, one tablespoon of sugar, salt, flour as needed. For the pizza: 300g of chicken breast (boiled), 300g of mushrooms, one bell pepper, 3 tomatoes, 150g of olives, 400g of cheese, tomato paste, salt, pizza seasoning.