Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough - Start by making or preparing your pizza dough according to your favorite recipe. If you’re using store-bought dough, allow it to come to room temperature for easier handling.
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
- Step 3: Roll Out the Dough - On a floured surface, take your pizza dough and roll it out into a circular shape. Aim for about 12 inches in diameter, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
- Step 4: Add the Pizza Sauce - Spread a heaping 1 cup of pizza sauce evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Step 5: Layer the Cheese and Toppings - Add 8 ounces of sliced bocconcini mozzarella on top of the sauce, followed by 1 cup of sliced cherry tomatoes. Then, sprinkle 10 fresh basil leaves over the pizza.
- Step 6: Season and Drizzle - Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the toppings to add a kick and drizzle extra-virgin olive oil for added flavor.
- Step 7: Bake the Pizza - Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve - Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Allow it to cool for a minute, then garnish with more fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot!
- Step 9: Peach & Pesto Pizza - To make a delightful peach and pesto pizza, follow similar steps but with a twist: Roll out your pizza dough and spread 3 tablespoons of pesto instead of pizza sauce. Layer on 8 ounces of sliced bocconcini mozzarella. Add 2 ripe peaches, sliced, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy flavor. Bake as directed and finish with fresh mint leaves after removing from the oven.
Notes
- Leftover dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat pizza in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes for best texture.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences!
