Recipe: Sardinian Pizza
Introduction
Sardinian pizza, also known as “pizzetta sarda,” is a traditional Italian dish originating from the island of Sardinia. It is a unique and delicious variation of pizza that features a thin, crispy crust topped with flavorful ingredients. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own Sardinian pizza at home.
Ingredients
To make Sardinian pizza, you will need the following ingredients:
For the dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ¾ cup warm water
For the toppings:
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups grated pecorino cheese
– 10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup sliced black olives
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Sardinian pizza:
1. Prepare the dough
– In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
– Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and warm water.
– Mix until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface.
– Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven
– Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
3. Shape and top the pizza
– Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.
– On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin circle.
– Transfer the dough circles onto a piece of parchment paper.
4. Add the toppings
– Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
– Sprinkle half of the grated pecorino cheese on top of each pizza.
– Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced black olives on the pizzas.
5. Bake the pizza
– Carefully transfer the pizzas (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
– Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish and serve
– Once out of the oven, garnish the Sardinian pizzas with fresh basil leaves.
– Allow them to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
Sardinian pizza is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that will transport your taste buds to the beautiful island of Sardinia. With its thin and crispy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and a combination of pecorino cheese, cherry tomatoes, and black olives, this pizza is a true crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Sardinia in your own home!