Quick and Easy Weeknight Pizza Dough
Low effort recipe for those busy days..
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Today, I will share a quick, easy weeknight pizza dough recipe. After a long day, nobody wants to wait hours for the dough to rise or settle for a mediocre takeout pizza, right?
So, let's get rolling and make some delicious pizza at home. 🍕
Making pizza at home can be as easy as pie (pun intended). Here are some tips to ensure your pizza-making game is top-notch and you become a pizza pro – or at least look like one on Instagram. 😜
Kneading: Keep it light. Five minutes is all you need. Over-kneading can make the dough tough, and we want it tender, just like your love for pizza.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it's too dry, sprinkle in a little water.
Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm spot. A sunny window or the top of your fridge works wonders. It’s the dough’s little spa treatment.
Rolling Out / Stretching: If the dough is too elastic, let it rest for a few minutes. It just needs a break – don’t we all?
Baking: For optimal results, consider using a pizza oven like the Ooni Koda 12. If you don't have one, a pizza stone or steel will work well to distribute heat for that perfect bake evenly.
No stone? No problem. For a similarly crispy outcome, place parchment paper on a wire rack at the bottom of the oven.
Preheat your oven; it's the first thing you do because nobody has time to wait for a slow oven.
Topping Combos to Try
Pizza’s beauty lies in its versatility. Check your fridge and pantry for inspiration. Got some slices of ham or pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms? Great! And let's not forget the cheeses—mozzarella, Cheddar, Feta, Gorgonzola, Parmesan, and even Goat Cheese can add unique flavors to your pizza.
The possibilities are endless.
Here are some of my favorite pizzas I whip up when time is short:
Classic Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s simple, elegant, and always a hit.
Pepperoni & Jalapeño: Spice up your life with a pepperoni and jalapeño combo. It’s fiery and fantastic.
Prosciutto & Arugula: Top your Margherita with thinly sliced prosciutto and fresh arugula after baking. This is the perfect blend of savory and fresh.
Four Cheese Delight: Mozzarella, Parmesan, Gorgonzola, and feta cheese. Because more cheese is always a good idea.
Anchovy & Capers: For the bold and adventurous, this salty delight is a flavor bomb.
Fig & Goat Cheese: After baking, top your goat cheese pizza with sliced figs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Sweet, tangy, and sophisticated.
One of my latest weeknight pizzas: Ham, blue cheese & red onions
The following recipe is your new best friend for busy weeknights. It’s so simple that even your neighbor’s cat could follow.
Ingredients (makes two medium pizzas):
7 grams of active dry yeast
4 grams sugar
250 grams of water (room temperature)
400 grams all-purpose flour
30 grams of olive oil
8 grams salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 245°C (475°F) or higher. Time to get things hot..!
In a small bowl, combine water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. It’s alive!
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Don’t overdo it – we’re making pizza, not lifting weights. If you've already had your workout for the day, let a stand mixer do the heavy lifting!
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to prep the sauce and your toppings!
Roll out or stretch the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and transfer it to parchment paper. Spread on your sauce, add your favorite toppings, and you will be ready for oven action!
The dough can also be turned into a delicious ciabatta bread... 👌🏻
Perfect for sandwiches..!
Final Slice
Making homemade pizza doesn’t have to be an all-day affair. With this straightforward dough recipe and creative toppings, you can satisfy your pizza cravings effortlessly, even on a busy weeknight.
So get that oven on and bake something tasty!
Stay cheesy,
Filippo
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