Fresh Tomato Basil Garlic Pizza with Melted Mozzarella
This pizza combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic with melted mozzarella on a homemade dough, bringing the taste of Italy to your table.
Equipment
- 1 pizza stone optional, for crispy crust
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Baking Sheet or pizza peel
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- 1/2 cup basil garlic sauce
- 2 large tomatoes sliced
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella shredded
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, slice tomatoes, shred mozzarella, and mince garlic. Tear basil leaves slightly to release their aroma.
Serving
- Preheat your oven to 475°F. Roll out the dough and spread basil garlic sauce over it. Top with tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, and basil.
- Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm.
Storage
- Wrap leftover pizza in foil or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust. Balance toppings to avoid sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese if needed.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or pasta dish for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate, allowing it to come to room temperature before baking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese if needed.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or pasta dish for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate, allowing it to come to room temperature before baking.