Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of pizza where the creamy, fresh mozzarella meets the juicy sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, all crowned with fragrant basil leaves. This Fresh Mozzarella Heirloom Tomato and Basil Pizza is not just a meal; it's a celebration of Italian flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-drenched piazza. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Ready to elevate your pizza game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 pizzas
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle or lower third of the oven. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately 12-14 inches in diameter. Aim for a thin, even thickness that will create a crispy crust.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make transfer easier.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil across the surface of the pizza dough, using a pastry brush to spread it evenly to the edges.
- Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices across the pizza dough, leaving small gaps between each slice to allow for melting.
- Layer the heirloom tomato slices carefully over and between the mozzarella, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes and cheese to enhance the flavors.
- Slide the pizza into the preheated oven, either directly onto the pizza stone or on the baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves across the surface.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the pizza and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately while hot and fresh.
Tips
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The success of this pizza hinges on the freshness of its ingredients. Opt for the ripest heirloom tomatoes and the best quality fresh mozzarella you can find for maximum flavor.
- Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 475°F (245°C) before baking. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust that holds up against the toppings.
- Roll the Dough Evenly: When rolling out your pizza dough, aim for an even thickness. A thin crust will provide that delightful crunch while still allowing the toppings to shine.
- Don’t Overload Toppings: While it may be tempting to pile on the toppings, be mindful of balance. Too many toppings can lead to a soggy pizza. Stick to the suggested amounts for the best results.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow your pizza to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and complexity.
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your pizza immediately while it’s still hot and fresh out of the oven. The flavors are at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
