Express Pizza
Delicious Homemade Pizza Recipe
Total preparation time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Number of servings: 4 large pizzas
Pizza is a dish that has won the hearts of many, becoming a symbol of conviviality, evenings spent with friends, and family gatherings. This homemade pizza recipe is simple and quick, perfect for those who want to bring the flavor of a pizzeria into their own kitchen. Additionally, with a fluffy dough and delicious toppings, you'll turn every slice into a true celebration of taste.
Ingredients for the dough:
- 1 kg wheat flour (preferably type 00 for a fine texture)
- 500 ml warm water (about 37-40 degrees Celsius)
- 14 g dry yeast
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
Ingredients for the topping:
- 400 g pressed ham
- 400 g tenderloin
- 400 g cheese (preferably a cheese with a higher fat content for optimal melting)
- 100 g mushrooms (fresh, sliced)
- 1 large bell pepper (colored, for an attractive appearance)
- 100 g ketchup (or tomato sauce, to taste)
Step by step: Preparing the dough
1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the dry yeast and sugar in a few tablespoons of warm water. It is important that the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Mix well and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until a foam forms on top – this is a sign that the yeast is active.
2. Preparing the starter: Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the yeast mixture and mix until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Let this starter rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in volume.
3. Forming the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt, mixing well to evenly distribute the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the activated starter. Begin to pour in warm water gradually, mixing constantly with a wooden spoon or a fork.
4. Kneading: Once all the flour is incorporated, add the olive oil. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and begin to knead for about 10-15 minutes until you have an elastic and smooth dough. If you feel that the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it!
5. Letting the dough rise: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little olive oil, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles or even triples in volume.
Preparing the toppings
While the dough is rising, we can prepare the filling. Cut the ingredients into suitable pieces:
1. Ham and tenderloin: Cut both types of meat into thin slices for even distribution on the pizza.
2. Bell pepper: Cut it into thin rings, choosing various colors (red, yellow, green) for a vibrant look.
3. Mushrooms: Slice them thinly for even cooking.
Assembling the pizza
1. Preparing the trays: Grease the trays in which we will bake the pizza with a little olive oil. It is essential to ensure that the trays are well greased to prevent the dough from sticking.
2. Forming the bases: Once the dough has risen, divide it into four equal pieces. Take one piece of dough and place it in the prepared tray. With your fingers, press the dough until it reaches the edges, forming an even base. It is important not to use a rolling pin, as we want to keep the air in the dough.
3. Pre-baking the bases: Using a fork, prick the base in several places (avoiding the edges) to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
4. Adding the sauce: Spread pizza sauce (or ketchup) evenly over the base.
5. Adding the toppings: Evenly distribute the cut ingredients over the pizza base, ensuring that each pizza receives:
- Approximately 100 g of pressed ham
- Approximately 100 g of tenderloin
- Approximately 100 g of cheese
- 25 g of mushrooms
- ¼ of the sliced bell pepper
- 25 g of ketchup
Finally, grate cheese on top for a delicious golden crust.
Baking the pizza
1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 220-250 degrees Celsius). If using a gas oven or an electric oven, make sure to let it heat well before introducing the pizza.
2. Baking: Place the pizza tray in the oven and let it bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges become golden and crispy. If you have an oven with a broil function, this can provide an even crispier crust.
Serving the pizza
Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, cut it into slices and serve warm, alongside ketchup or your favorite sauces. You can also add some fresh basil leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Helpful tips:
- Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients and, if possible, high-quality ones. A good cheese will make a difference in the final texture and taste.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the ham and tenderloin with grilled vegetables or tofu for a healthy vegetarian version.
- Storing the pizza: If you have leftover pizza, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Reheat it in the microwave or in the oven to regain its crispiness.
Nutritional benefits:
This homemade pizza recipe offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, thanks to the ingredients used. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables included in the toppings.
Approximate calories: One slice of pizza (from a pizza divided into 8 slices) has around 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the size of the slices.
Perfect pairings: This pizza is excellent served alongside a fresh green salad or a light white wine. Additionally, homemade lemonade or a fruit cocktail can add a refreshing touch on warm days.
Try this simple and delicious homemade pizza recipe, perfect for any occasion. You will surely impress family and friends! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: for the dough: 1 kg flour 500 ml water 14 g dry yeast 5 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon salt for the filling: 400 g pressed ham 400 g fillet mignon 400 g cheese 100 g mushrooms 1 large bell pepper 100 g ketchup
