Bruschetta Pizza Recipe
This unique bruschetta pizza recipe blends a crispy, homemade pizza base with a fresh topping of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. The result is a light, flavorful dish perfect as an appetizer or a main course, celebrating simple Italian ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Topping:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or a dairy-free alternative
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: First, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Next, add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Then, stir continuously until the mixture binds into a smooth, cohesive dough. After that, knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Finally, place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Also, if you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up for a crispier crust.
- Assemble the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to form a thin, round base. Next, transfer the dough to a baking tray or the heated pizza stone. Then, spread the diced tomatoes evenly over the dough. After that, sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped basil on top. If you are using cheese, add it now. Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the toppings are bubbly. Finally, remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Notes
- For a thicker crust, allow the dough to rest longer or roll it out to a thicker diameter.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, try adding a sprinkle of dried oregano or red pepper flakes before baking.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to bring out the best in your bruschetta pizza. Enjoy experimenting with variations such as adding a handful of arugula or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.