Who doesn’t love a good pizza?
It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re having a movie night, a casual dinner, or just craving something delicious, homemade pizza is always a hit.
Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will make you a pizza-making pro in no time!
Ingredients:
- 12-inch pizza dough: You can buy pre-made dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
- ½ cup pizza sauce of choice: Pick your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a quick homemade version.
- 6 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and gives your pizza that perfect cheesy goodness.
- 3 oz arugula: Adds a fresh, peppery flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for both the pizza and the salad topping.
- ½ lemon, juiced: A bit of lemon juice brightens up the arugula salad.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a little kick.
- 3-6 oz prosciutto: This thinly sliced Italian ham adds a delicious savory note.
- ¼ cup shaved parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the pizza dough package. For most doughs, this is around 425°F. Properly preheating your oven ensures a crispy crust and evenly cooked pizza. - Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled pizza pan or stone. Spread 2 tablespoons of olive oil all over the top of the dough. This helps create a golden, crispy crust. - Par-Bake the Dough:
Place the pizza dough in the oven on the bottom rack and par-bake for about 10 minutes. Par-baking is an important step that ensures your crust doesn’t become soggy when you add the sauce and toppings. - Add Sauce and Cheese:
Remove the dough from the oven and spread the pizza sauce evenly over the top. Next, sprinkle the mozzarella cubes all over the sauce. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. The exact time depends on how crispy you want your crust and how melty you like your cheese. - Prepare the Arugula Salad:
While the pizza is baking, prepare the salad topping. In a bowl, combine the arugula, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the arugula is well-coated. - Add Prosciutto and Salad:
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven. Tear the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces and distribute them evenly over the pizza. Finally, pile the arugula salad on top and sprinkle with shaved parmesan.
Tips for the Perfect Pizza:
- Dough: If you’re using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with and less likely to tear.
- Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different types of sauces, like pesto or white garlic sauce, for a unique twist.
- Cheese: While fresh mozzarella is recommended, you can also use shredded mozzarella, fontina, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Add roasted vegetables, different types of meats, or even fruits like figs for a gourmet touch.
- Baking: If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a pizza stone or a baking steel. These tools retain heat better and create a nice, crunchy bottom.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this pizza can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh mozzarella, peppery arugula, and savory prosciutto is simply irresistible.
- Fun to Make: Involve your family or friends in the pizza-making process. It’s a great way to spend time together and enjoy a homemade meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your homemade pizza with a simple side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
A glass of your favorite wine or a cold beer also goes great with pizza.
Enjoy your delicious creation with loved ones and savor the satisfaction of making a meal from scratch.
Making homemade pizza is not only fun but also rewarding.
With this easy recipe, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza in no time.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade pizza you’ve ever had. Happy cooking!