Homemade Italian Pizza

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (235ml) warm water 1 cup (235ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240g) tomato sauce 1 cup (240g) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Assorted toppings (such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, and pepperoni) Assorted toppings (such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, and pepperoni)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
2. 2.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. 3.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.
5. 5.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and add your desired toppings.
9. 9.
   Carefully transfer the pizza on the parchment paper onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
10. 10.
    Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
11. 11.
    Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
12. 12.
    Repeat the process with the remaining dough and toppings.
13. 13.
    Slice the pizzas and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomato sauce — Use a high-quality tomato sauce or make your own by simmering fresh tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and herbs until thickened.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for fresh mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture, or use shredded mozzarella for convenience.
• Toppings — Feel free to experiment with various toppings such as fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or cooked Italian sausage to enhance the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• For a crispier crust, preheat the baking sheet or pizza stone before placing the pizza on it.
• If you prefer a thicker crust, let the dough rise for a longer period of time.
• Experiment with different combinations of toppings to create your own signature pizza.
• Brush the crust with olive oil before baking for a beautiful golden color.
• Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the toppings from sliding off.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade Italian pizza hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and serve it as a main course or as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Pair it with a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to create an authentic Italian feel.