Olive Oil Pizza Recipe
300kcal
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour, if preferred
- 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar optional, for activating yeast
- For the Toppings suggested:
- 1 cup tomato sauce or use olive oil as a base for a lighter option
- 1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella cheese shredded or sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Sliced tomatoes or other vegetables e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers
- Olives caramelized onions, or other desired toppings
- Additional extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling Pin
- Damp cloth (for covering dough)
- Oven (preheated to 475°F/245°C)
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Method
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups flour, 1 packet of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Add ¾ cup warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the bowl. Mix together until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
- Shape and Top the Pizza:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into your desired shape (circle or rectangle).
- Place the rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce (or extra olive oil) over the dough.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and add your desired toppings (tomatoes, vegetables, etc.).
- Bake the Pizza:
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and drizzle with a little more olive oil and fresh basil.Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or top with arugula for extra flavor.
Notes
- Dough Rising: For a more flavorful dough, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for a slower fermentation process, which will enhance the taste and texture.
- Toppings: Feel free to customize your toppings based on your preferences. Try experimenting with various cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
- Olive Oil Choices: The quality of the olive oil will affect the flavor of your pizza. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Freezing Dough: If you have leftover dough, it can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
