Pizza with Instant Yeast: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Pizza Lovers
If you’re craving a fresh, homemade pizza but don’t have time for a long rise or complicated dough-making process, this Pizza with Instant Yeast is the perfect solution. With a simple dough that requires no rising time, it can be prepared in under an hour and packed with rich toppings like creamy gorgonzola, savory prosciutto, and fresh mushrooms. This recipe creates two delicious pizzas, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or a small gathering. Let’s dive into the steps and ingredients to make this easy yet mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients for the Pizza Dough and Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (00 type) | 400g |
| Water | 220g |
| Fine salt | 15g |
| Instant yeast for savory recipes | 15g |
| Champignon mushrooms | 100g |
| Prosciutto crudo (raw ham) | 4 slices |
| Tomato passata (pureed tomatoes) | 200g |
| Gorgonzola cheese | 100g |
| Olive oil (extra virgin) | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Pizza
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Prepare the Pizza Dough:
- Begin by placing the flour and instant yeast into a large mixing bowl. Add the water slowly, stirring with a fork as you go. This helps incorporate the liquid into the flour gradually.
- Once the dough starts to form, switch to your hands to knead it. Continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add salt and knead again until it’s fully incorporated, ensuring that the dough is both well-mixed and seasoned.
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Shape the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a flat surface and round it (pirla), shaping it into a neat ball. This helps create an even texture and makes it easier to stretch the dough later.
- Lightly grease a 30 cm round baking tray with some extra virgin olive oil. Place the dough in the center and gently press it out with your fingers, working from the middle outwards until it fills the tray completely. Leave a small border around the edges for the crust.
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Prepare the Toppings:
- Start by cleaning the champignon mushrooms. Remove the stems and use a small brush or a damp cloth to clean off any dirt. Slice them thinly to create even, attractive pieces for topping the pizza.
- In a separate bowl, mix the tomato passata with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir the mixture well, making sure the seasonings are fully incorporated.
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Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the seasoned tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about 1.5 cm around the edges for the crust.
- Layer the sliced mushrooms over the tomato sauce in a decorative pattern. Ensure they’re spread evenly across the pizza to get a nice balance of flavor with each bite.
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Bake the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) with the heat set to static (conventional). Once the oven is hot, place the pizza inside and bake for about 15 minutes. The crust should be golden and crispy, and the mushrooms should be tender.
- After the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two to cool slightly.
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Finish with Cheese and Prosciutto:
- Crumble or break the gorgonzola cheese into small pieces and scatter them over the hot pizza. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
- Finally, add the slices of prosciutto on top of the pizza, allowing the heat to slightly warm the ham, enhancing its flavor and texture.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer your freshly baked pizza onto a serving plate, slice it up, and serve immediately. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil and sprinkle a touch of black pepper over the top for extra flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Dough Variations: If you prefer a more traditional dough, you can replace the instant yeast with active dry yeast and allow the dough to rise for 1-2 hours before shaping.
- Toppings: Feel free to swap out the gorgonzola for another cheese, like mozzarella or fontina, if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also add other toppings such as olives, bell peppers, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Crust: For a crispier crust, you can bake the pizza on a pizza stone or use a perforated baking sheet to allow more air circulation.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza
This Pizza with Instant Yeast is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle of waiting for dough to rise. The instant yeast makes the process quick and easy, while the gorgonzola adds a decadent touch of creaminess that complements the salty prosciutto and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, or impromptu gatherings, this recipe delivers a flavorful pizza in no time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pizza with a light salad to balance the rich flavors, or serve it alongside a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, which complement the creamy gorgonzola and savory prosciutto. For a heartier meal, serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread.
Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or a beginner, this easy pizza recipe will surely satisfy your craving for homemade pizza with minimal effort. Try it out next time you’re in the mood for something delicious, and discover just how quick and satisfying pizza night can be!
