Pizza Bianca, also known as “white pizza,” is a type of pizza that omits the traditional tomato sauce, focusing instead on a combination of cheese, garlic, olive oil, and various toppings. Here’s a classic recipe to make Pizza Bianca at home:
### Ingredients:
#### Dough:
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
– 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
#### Toppings:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
– 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula (optional)
– Prosciutto (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
– Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
2. **Prepare the Toppings:**
– In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Set aside.
3. **Assemble the Pizza:**
– Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
– Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a circle or desired shape on a floured surface.
– Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper if using a pizza stone, or directly to a lightly oiled baking sheet.
– Brush the dough with the garlic and herb-infused olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
– Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough. Dot with spoonfuls of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
– Season with a little salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. **Bake the Pizza:**
– Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
5. **Optional Toppings:**
– Once out of the oven, you can top the pizza with fresh arugula and prosciutto for added flavor and texture.
6. **Serve:**
– Slice and serve your Pizza Bianca hot. Enjoy!
Feel free to customize the toppings to your preference, adding ingredients like mushrooms, caramelized onions, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
