Basil and Garlic Olive Oil Pizza

Making homemade pizza can seem like a daunting endeavor, but with the right approach, it transforms into an exciting kitchen adventure! Did you know that homemade pizza allows you to control the ingredients, leading to a pie that’s not only delicious but also healthier? Imagine the aroma of roasted garlic and fresh basil wafting through your home, tingling your taste buds and making you dream of summer evenings. Let’s dive into creating a Basil and Garlic Olive Oil Pizza that will not only impress your family but also solidify your reputation as the home-cooking hero!

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Why This Basil and Garlic Olive Oil Pizza Will Delight Your Family

Pizza night can become a treasured family tradition, and this Basil and Garlic Olive Oil Pizza elevates that experience to new heights. With its crispy whole wheat crust and a medley of fresh ingredients, every bite offers a symphony of flavor. Plus, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between being indulgent and nourishing, making it great for any night of the week. Get ready to become the town’s top pizzeria without ever leaving the house!

The Essentials

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this pizza masterpiece:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 and one half tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Whole wheat pizza dough (one third of recipe or store-bought)
• 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, sliced
• one half cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 15 basil leaves, divided
• 1 oz. shaved parmesan cheese

Whole Wheat Pizza Dough Ingredients:

• one half tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 and three quarters cups lukewarm water (between 110-115 degrees F)
• one half tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 and one half cups all-purpose flour

Step-by-Step Method

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your Basil and Garlic Olive Oil Pizza:

1. In a large bowl, combine yeast and lukewarm water. Let sit for 3 minutes. Stir in salt, honey (or sugar), and olive oil. Expert Tip: Make sure the water isn’t too hot; else, you might kill the yeast and jeopardize the dough’s rise!
2. Gradually stir in whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour until just blended. If the dough is wet, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Tip: Look for a tacky but not sticky dough consistency.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise at room temperature for about two hours. Pro Insight: A warm draft-free spot, such as your oven with the light on, is ideal for rising.
4. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Cover a 12-inch round pan with foil and brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Quick Note: The oil will help achieve that crispy crust you crave!
5. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch round on a floured surface and place it on the prepared pan. Tip for Success: Use plenty of flour to prevent sticking; no one wants a battle with the dough!
6. Mix minced garlic and 2 and one half tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl, then brush the dough with this mixture. Flavor Boost: This step infuses tasty garlic essence right into the crust!
7. Layer mozzarella slices on the dough and spoon ricotta cheese around. Visual Cue: Aim for a generous distribution of cheese to ensure every bite is cheesy goodness.
8. Cover with 12 basil leaves and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Textural Tip: Add the basil before baking to allow its sublime flavors to meld with the cheese.
9. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the crust is browned and crispy. Watch Carefully: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it after 15 minutes!
10. Chiffonade the remaining 3 basil leaves and sprinkle over the top before serving. Final Touch: This gives your pizza a beautiful, fresh finish that’s drool-worthy.

Healthy Reasons to Love This

This pizza serves about 4, with a calorie count of around 320 calories per slice. You can also soak in 17 grams of protein, 38 grams of carbohydrates, 12 grams of fat, and 4 grams of fiber with each piece. The use of whole wheat flour adds not just flavor but also nutrients to fuel your body. A heart-healthy dish like this can easily fit into a balanced diet while still being a delightful indulgence!

How to Serve It Best

Slice this masterpiece into generous pieces and serve alongside a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. A chilled glass of white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, pairs brilliantly, bringing out the flavors of the garlic and basil. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard gathering with friends, this pizza can hold its own at any table!

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices in a tightly wrapped foil for up to 2 months. When it’s time to reheat, pop it in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that lovely crispy crust. Freshness Tip: For microwave reheating, cover the pizza with a damp paper towel to avoid a chewy texture.

Expert Tips

1. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles—try goat cheese or fontina for gourmet spins.
2. Enhance the crust by sprinkling garlic powder or Italian herbs before baking for an aromatic kick.
3. For a touch of heat, add red pepper flakes to the garlic oil mixture.
4. Consider brushing the crust’s edge with melted butter or olive oil before baking for a glossy finish.
5. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for easier rolling out.

Flavor Experiments

• Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add thin slices of roasted pumpkin for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Gourmet Variation: Swap out basil for arugula after baking for a peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the cheeses.
• Playful Option: Sprinkle shredded cooked chicken or pepperoni for a heartier meal that kids will love.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Mistake: Not letting the dough rise enough. Fix: Give it the full two hours for optimal texture.
2. Mistake: Overloading with toppings creates a soggy pizza. Right Fix: Stick to a balanced amount; less is more!
3. Mistake: Preheating the oven too late. Solution: Set it to preheat as soon as you start preparing your dough.
4. Mistake: Forgetting to cut slits in the crust. Fix: This allows steam to escape, preventing a doughy center.
5. Mistake: The cheese burning before the crust cooks. Solution: Use a baking stone or place the pizza lower in the oven.

Creative Second-Day Ideas

1. Pizza Frittata: Blend leftover pizza with eggs for a delicious breakfast frittata.
2. Garlic Pizza Croutons: Cut the pizza into bites, toast them in the oven, then use as croutons in salads.
3. Tasty Pizza Wraps: Shred leftover pizza and wrap it in tortillas for a quick and fun lunch option.

Curious Cooks Ask

Can I make pizza dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the day before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling out.

How can I make my pizza crust crispy?

Using a hot oven and a preheated pizza stone or a heavy cast-iron pan helps achieve that desirable crispy crust.

What are the best topping combinations for pizza?

Classic combinations like pepperoni and mushrooms are always winners, but feel free to experiment with local seasonal veggies or gourmet cheeses for a unique twist!

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe using gluten-free flour blends designed for pizza. Just check for specific moisture adjustments, as gluten-free dough can behave differently!