Pizza with anchovies and mozzarella

Anchovy and Mozzarella Pizza: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most beloved dishes around the world. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but today, pizza is a symbol of conviviality and the joy of sharing flavorful moments. In this recipe, we will combine the intense flavor of anchovies with the creaminess of mozzarella, resulting in a delicious pizza, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- Dough
- 300 g pizza flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Warm water (approximately 150 ml)

- Toppings
- 250 g tomato sauce
- 100 g anchovies (fillets)
- 150 g mozzarella (sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon pizza seasoning

Necessary utensils

- Large bowl or food processor
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Spoon
- Kitchen towel

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Start by placing the flour in a large bowl or in the food processor. Special pizza flour is essential as it contains more gluten, giving the dough elasticity and the perfect texture.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the salt. The oil will not only provide a pleasant taste but will also help form a crispy crust.
3. Gradually start adding warm water while mixing with a spoon or using the food processor. Continue kneading the dough for about 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, which will facilitate subsequent stretching.

Step 2: Preparing the pizza

1. After 30 minutes, prepare a larger tray and place a sheet of parchment paper at the bottom. This will prevent the dough from sticking and will help achieve a beautifully browned crust.
2. Transfer the dough to the tray and start stretching it with your hands. You can shape it rectangular or round, depending on your preference. Make sure the dough is evenly spread across the entire surface of the tray.
3. Use a spoon to spread the tomato sauce over the entire surface of the dough. Choose a good quality tomato sauce that adds extra flavor.
4. Sprinkle the pizza seasoning over the entire surface. This will add an intense flavor and perfectly complement the ingredients.
5. Arrange the anchovy pieces evenly on the pizza. Anchovies bring a salty and umami flavor that will transform the pizza into a true delight.
6. Add the mozzarella slices over the entire pizza. Mozzarella will melt beautifully and provide a creamy and delicious texture.

Step 3: Baking the pizza

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. It is important for the temperature to be right to achieve a crispy crust and well-melted cheese.
2. Once the oven is hot, place the tray with the pizza inside and let it bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese melts and begins to brown slightly.
3. After the pizza is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Serving

Slice the pizza and serve it warm or cold, according to your preference. This anchovy and mozzarella pizza is perfect alongside a crispy green salad or a glass of dry white wine. Don’t forget to share with friends, as pizza is best enjoyed together!

Useful tips

- Ingredient variations: If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can replace this ingredient with Kalamata olives or mushrooms, which bring a different taste and texture.
- Seasonings: Instead of pizza seasoning, you can experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Dough: If you want a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pizza flour, which is available in most stores.
- Additions: Add a few slices of hot pepper or red onion for a spicy flavor and a crunchy texture.

Nutritional benefits

Anchovy and mozzarella pizza is not only delicious but also nutritious. Mozzarella is a good source of protein and calcium, while anchovies provide omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. The whole wheat flour used in the dough adds fiber, aiding in healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with cheddar or feta cheese, depending on your preferences.
- What can I do with leftover dough? If you have leftover dough, you can make rolls or focaccia. Roll it out and bake separately, adding herbs and olive oil.

Now it’s time to put your cooking skills into practice and enjoy this simple and quick recipe. We hope you enjoy every bite of your anchovy and mozzarella pizza! Enjoy your meal!