Pizza Rustica (Ham, Cheese, and Vegetables)
Pizza Rustica is a classic of Italian cuisine, a defining part of Mediterranean cooking for centuries. Originally it was a dish served at Easter, but it can be enjoyed any time of the year. The essence of the recipe lies in the perfect balance of rich toppings and a crispy crust. There's nothing better on a cold winter evening than a slice of hot Pizza Rustica covered in melted cheese. One of the secrets of making homemade pizza is proper proofing and high-quality ingredients. For a truly authentic taste, use fresh basil and hand-rolled dough. It's an excellent choice for family dinners and gatherings with friends alike!
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.
2
In a large bowl, sift the flour, add the salt, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.
3
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4
While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings: slice the ham, bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms. Grate or slice the mozzarella.
5
Preheat the oven to 430°F (220°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thickness and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with oregano and basil. Distribute the ham, vegetables, and mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
7
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the crust is crisp.
8
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
