Toscana Pizza
Experience the authentic taste of Toscana pizza, a rustic Italian dish that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your home.
Equipment
- 1 pizza stone for a crispy crust
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 tsp
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 475°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
Assemble the Pizza
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet.
- Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a border for the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and arrange basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt.
Bake the Pizza
- Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional basil if desired.
Storage
- Place any leftover slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use a pizza stone for a crisp crust, and let the dough rise overnight for better flavor. Ingredient Substitutions: Use canned tomatoes if fresh are unavailable, and dried herbs in place of fresh ones. How to Serve: Pair with a simple green salad and a glass of Chianti. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate overnight for a more developed flavor.