“`html
Tomato Basil Pizza is a classic dish that brings together the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil on a crispy crust. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious pizza that will impress your guests. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step process, you’ll be able to create your own homemade Tomato Basil Pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. This will help create a crispy crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled dough onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
Step 4: Layer the Cheese and Tomatoes
Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices over the sauce, followed by the sliced tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried oregano if using.
Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the pizza to enhance the flavors and help with browning.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Add Fresh Basil
Once the pizza is out of the oven, add the fresh basil leaves on top. The residual heat will wilt the basil slightly, releasing its aromatic flavor.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes, then slice it into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Tomato Basil Pizza!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough is a great option for convenience. Just follow the instructions on the package for best results.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for this recipe due to their flavor and low moisture content.
Can I add other toppings to my Tomato Basil Pizza?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as bell peppers, olives, or pepperoni, while keeping the classic tomato and basil base.
How do I store leftover pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Tomato Basil Pizza is entirely vegetarian and can be enjoyed by anyone following a plant-based diet.
“`