Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of Authentic Greek Island Pizza, where the rich flavors of feta cheese, briny olives, and sun-kissed cherry tomatoes transport you straight to the shores of the Aegean Sea. This Olive Oil Pizza, known as Lathenia, is not just a dish; it's a culinary journey that promises to delight your senses and impress your guests. With a crispy, golden crust and a medley of vibrant toppings, this recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Ready to elevate your pizza game? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and activated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- 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.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a thin, round shape approximately 12-14 inches in diameter.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the surface of the dough, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly across the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Distribute sliced olives and halved cherry tomatoes across the pizza.
- Generously sprinkle dried oregano over the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is slightly melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired before serving.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot, enjoying the authentic flavors of Greek island cuisine.
Tips
- Perfect Your Dough: Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If it doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, it’s best to start over with new yeast.
- Knead with Care: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic—this is crucial for achieving that perfect, chewy texture.
- Warm Environment for Rising: Find a warm spot in your kitchen to let the dough rise. A turned-off oven with the light on is a great option.
- Use Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your olive oil will shine through, so opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and the dough.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like roasted red peppers or artichokes, to personalize your pizza.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes; every oven is different, and you want to catch it just as the crust turns golden brown.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the cheese set and make for cleaner cuts.Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Greek Island Pizza recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
