Pizza with Dried Herbs

Pizza with Dried Herbs Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Pizza with dried herbs is a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs on a crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends and family.

History

Pizza has a long history that dates back to ancient times, with its origins in Italy. The modern pizza as we know it today, with toppings like cheese and tomato sauce, became popular in Naples in the 18th century. Dried herbs, such as oregano and thyme, are commonly used in traditional Italian pizza recipes to add depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Toppings

1.25 cups of thick tomato sauce
1 tsp of dried oregano
0.5 tsp of dried thyme
7 oz (198 g) of mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp of freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp of olive oil

Dough

0.5 pack of active dry yeast
0.67 cups of warm water
1 pinch of sugar
2 cups of all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

Dough

Put the yeast in a cup with 2 tsp of the warm water and a pinch of sugar.
Leave it in a warm place for 10 minutes until frothy.
Sift the flour with the salt into a large bowl.
Make a depression in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast liquid, the remaining lukewarm water, and the olive oil.
Beat with a wooden spoon until it all clings together, adding a drop more water if required, then turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
Put the dough back in a clean bowl, lightly oiled, and cover it with cling film (saran wrap).
Place the bowl in a warm place for 1 – 2 hours until the dough has roughly doubled in volume. Meanwhile, make the tomato sauce.
When the dough has risen sufficiently, knock it back (punch it down) and turn it out onto a floured board.
Knead again briefly for about 2 to 3 minutes and divide it into 2 pieces.
Roll each piece out fairly thinly.
Pick up each one and pull it gently between the hands to make a large thin round, roughly 10 inches across.

Pizza

Lay the 2 circles of dough on oiled baking sheets and cover each one with 0.67 cup of thick tomato sauce, spreading it evenly almost up to the edge.
Sprinkle over each one 0.5 tsp of dried oregano and 0.25 tsp of dried thyme or, better still, wild thyme.
Grate the mozzarella coarsely and scatter half over each pizza.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and pour a thin trickle of olive oil, about 1 tbsp, over each.
Bake them for about 12 minutes in a hot oven at approximately 425°F (218°C) or until the edges of the dough are browned and the center lightly colored.

Variations

Add sliced vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier crust option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten and create a chewy crust.

- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and real Parmesan cheese, for the best flavor.

- Preheat your oven to a high temperature to ensure a crispy crust and melted cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pizza with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade for a delightful dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat your oven to a high temperature (425°F) to ensure a crispy crust.

- Use a pizza stone or baking sheet to bake the pizza evenly and prevent sticking.

- Rotate the pizza halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

- Substitute the mozzarella cheese with cheddar, provolone, or any other cheese of your choice.

- Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and tomato sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. This will save you time on busy weeknights and make dinner prep a breeze.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pizza on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone for a rustic touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the pizza with a light salad, such as a Caprese salad or a Caesar salad, for a well-rounded meal. For drinks, consider serving a crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pizza with dried herbs contains approximately 300 calories. This dish is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pizza with dried herbs contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are important for fueling your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of pizza with dried herbs contains approximately 15 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from the cheese and olive oil, which provide flavor and richness to the pizza.

Proteins

Each serving of pizza with dried herbs contains approximately 12 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Pizza with dried herbs is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while vitamin A and C are antioxidants that help boost the immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients carefully before preparing this dish.

Summary

Pizza with dried herbs is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates for energy, fats for flavor, proteins for muscle health, and vitamins and minerals for overall well-being. Enjoy this delicious dish in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Pizza with dried herbs is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs on a crispy crust. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a homemade pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria. Enjoy this classic recipe with friends and family for a memorable meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Pizza with Dried Herbs. It was during a trip to Italy many years ago, when I was just a young girl. My family and I were exploring the beautiful countryside, and we stumbled upon a small, quaint pizzeria in a charming village.

As soon as we walked in, the delicious aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air. I could hear the sound of laughter and chatter as the locals enjoyed their meals. The owner, a friendly Italian man named Luca, greeted us with a warm smile and welcomed us to his restaurant.

We settled into a cozy table by the window and Luca brought us a menu filled with tantalizing pizza options. As I scanned the menu, one particular pizza caught my eye - Pizza with Dried Herbs. I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and knew I had to try it.

When our pizzas arrived at the table, I couldn't wait to take a bite. The first taste was like nothing I had ever experienced before - the crispy crust, the gooey cheese, and the burst of flavors from the dried herbs. It was a culinary masterpiece that left me wanting more.

After finishing our meal, I couldn't resist asking Luca for the recipe. He chuckled and told me that it was a family secret passed down through generations. But he could see the curiosity in my eyes and decided to share it with me.

He took me into the kitchen and showed me how to make the pizza dough from scratch, kneading it with his strong hands until it was smooth and elastic. He then taught me how to spread the tomato sauce evenly, sprinkle on the cheese, and top it off with a generous amount of dried herbs - oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.

As the pizza baked in the hot oven, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of herbs and cheese. Luca pulled the pizza out of the oven, its golden crust bubbling and crispy. He sliced it into perfect wedges and served it to me with a smile.

I took a bite of the pizza, savoring the familiar flavors that now held a special significance. It was not just a dish to me anymore - it was a memory of a moment shared with a kind stranger who had opened his heart and his kitchen to me.

From that day on, Pizza with Dried Herbs became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for my family and friends, sharing the story of Luca and the pizzeria in the Italian countryside.

Years passed, and I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. But no matter how many times I made it, the taste always brought me back to that small village in Italy, where a simple pizza changed my life in ways I never could have imagined.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing the dough, spreading the sauce, and sprinkling on the herbs, I can't help but smile. The recipe for Pizza with Dried Herbs is not just a dish to me - it is a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to inspire us, and to bring us together in ways we never thought possible. And for that, I am forever grateful.