Description
This California Pizza recipe features a homemade dough topped with rich mozzarella, deli ham, fresh vegetables, and aromatic basil, creating a flavorful and vibrant pizza perfect for a casual meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 Tbsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 Tbsp honey
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups plus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp salt
Pizza Toppings
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups (8-10 oz) shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices deli ham, chopped or cut into strips
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 6-7 mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and honey in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is active. Then add olive oil, salt, and gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Toppings: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings by slicing the tomato, red onion, mushrooms, and black olives. Chop the deli ham and shred the mozzarella cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove air bubbles. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12-14 inch circle or desired pizza shape and thickness. Transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1/2 inch border for the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce. Arrange the chopped ham, sliced tomato, red onion, mushrooms, and black olives evenly on top.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the pizza to avoid burning.
- Add Fresh Basil and Serve: After baking, remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of aroma and flavor. Slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
- Allow the dough enough time to rise for a fluffy and airy crust.
- If desired, substitute deli ham with turkey or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh basil should be added after baking to preserve its fresh flavor.
- For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
