Prepare to elevate your pizza game with a restaurant-quality masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance! This Arugula and Fresh Mozzarella Pizza isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Imagine a crispy, golden crust topped with creamy mozzarella, peppery arugula, and a tantalizing balsamic glaze that will have your dinner guests begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 pizzas
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating to ensure it becomes thoroughly heated.
- Remove the pizza dough from refrigeration and let it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to stretch and shape.
- On a lightly floured surface, gently stretch the pizza dough into a thin, round shape approximately 12-14 inches in diameter. Use your hands to carefully stretch the dough, avoiding using a rolling pin to maintain air bubbles.
- Transfer the stretched dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make transferring easier.
- Brush the entire surface of the dough with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. This will help create a crisp, golden crust.
- Distribute sliced fresh mozzarella evenly across the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Season the pizza with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors of the cheese and upcoming toppings.
- Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly bubbling.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh, crisp arugula leaves. The residual heat will slightly wilt the arugula.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the pizza, adding a sweet and tangy finish to the dish.
- Let the pizza cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of crispy crust, melted cheese, and fresh arugula.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your oven is thoroughly preheated to 475°F for that perfect crispy crust. A pizza stone can dramatically improve your results by creating an even, intense heat.
- Dough Handling Matters: Let your pizza dough rest at room temperature and stretch it by hand to preserve those delightful air bubbles. Avoid using a rolling pin, which can deflate the dough.
- Olive Oil Technique: Brush the entire dough surface with olive oil for a golden, crisp crust that adds rich flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients Make the Difference: Use high-quality, fresh mozzarella and crisp arugula for the best taste and texture.
- Balsamic Glaze Trick: Drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern after baking to preserve its vibrant flavor and create a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 265kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
