Indulge in the elegant simplicity of our White Pizza recipe. This delightful dish offers a refreshing twist on traditional pizza, featuring a luscious blend of creamy ricotta, savory garlic, and aromatic thyme atop a crispy crust. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or craving a cozy night in, this pizza is sure to satisfy your culinary cravings. Follow along to discover the art of crafting this delectable masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza pan.
- Roll out Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape and thickness.
- Prepare Garlic Oil:
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble Pizza:
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan.
- Brush the surface of the dough with the prepared garlic oil, ensuring even coverage.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the ricotta.
- Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake:
- Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier option, top the pizza with cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sliced prosciutto before baking.
- Vegetarian Delight: Enhance the pizza with additional vegetables such as sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed spinach for a flavorful vegetarian version.
- Herb Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil to customize the flavor profile of your pizza.
- Cheese Varieties: Mix and match cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Try adding fontina, goat cheese, or Gruyère for additional depth of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the pizza dough with a low-carb or cauliflower crust to reduce the carb content. Use full-fat ricotta cheese and opt for low-carb toppings such as spinach, mushrooms, and olives.
- Low-Carb Version: Choose a thinner crust or reduce the portion size to lower the carb content. You can also use a combination of almond flour and cheese to create a keto-friendly crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-made garlic oil instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use pre-made garlic-infused olive oil for convenience. Simply brush it over the pizza dough before adding the toppings.
Q: Can I freeze leftover pizza for later? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza slices in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
Q: Can I make this pizza on a grill instead of baking it in the oven? A: Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or directly on the grill grates for a delicious smoky flavor.
Experience the sublime flavors of our White Pizza—a culinary masterpiece that combines creamy ricotta, aromatic garlic, and fragrant thyme atop a crispy crust. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight meal or served at a gathering with friends, this pizza is sure to impress with its irresistible taste and effortless elegance. So gather your ingredients and elevate your pizza game with this delightful recipe!
Embrace the simplicity and elegance of our White Pizza—a culinary delight that promises to tantalize your taste buds and captivate your senses. With its creamy ricotta and aromatic garlic, this pizza offers a refreshing departure from traditional toppings. So why wait? Treat yourself to a slice of gourmet goodness today!
