Fresh Ricotta Tomato Basil Pizza with Golden Cheese
A delicious vegetarian pizza featuring creamy ricotta, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, topped with a blend of golden cheeses for a perfect homemade pizza experience.
Equipment
- 1 pizza stone
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
Toppings
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 2 large tomatoes sliced
- 1/2 cup basil leaves chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Add olive oil and warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Let rest for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F with a pizza stone inside. This ensures the stone is hot enough to create a crispy crust.
- While the dough rises, slice the tomatoes and chop the basil leaves. Grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, setting aside the ricotta for spreading.
Serving
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, then transfer to a piece of parchment paper. Spread ricotta over the base, layer tomato slices, sprinkle with basil, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Carefully transfer the pizza (on the parchment) onto the hot pizza stone in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice into 8 pieces and serve immediately.
Storage
- Place any leftover slices in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use a pizza stone for a crispy crust. Let the dough rest for an hour for better flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or a chilled glass of white wine.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or a chilled glass of white wine.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor.