Tomato Pizza Recipe

Tomato Pizza Recipe

Are you craving a delicious homemade pizza with a fresh tomato base? Look no further! This easy-to-follow tomato pizza recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will help you craft the perfect pizza right at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Sliced fresh tomatoes
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• A drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Making the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
3. Add the Sauce and Toppings: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone. Spread a generous amount of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then add fresh tomato slices and basil leaves. If desired, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade tomato pizza!

Tips for Perfect Pizza

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil will enhance the flavor of your pizza.
• Preheat the Pizza Stone: If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crispy crust.
• Don’t Overload with Toppings: Less is more when it comes to pizza toppings. Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.

With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious tomato pizza that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your homemade pizza with family and friends, and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors that only a homemade pizza can offer.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, be sure to check out our other posts. Happy cooking!