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Herb Garden Pizza

Herb Garden Pizza

Herb Garden Pizza is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases fresh herbs, transforming a surplus of garden herbs into a delicious pizza. It's simple to make and perfect for warm weather meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
  • ½ cup fresh oregano, leaves only
  • ¼ cup fresh thyme, leaves only
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by activating the yeast. Combine warm water (about 110°F) with sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Step 2: Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add it along with olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Step 3: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour.
  4. Step 4: Prepare your herbs. Wash them thoroughly and pat dry. Chop the basil roughly. Strip oregano and thyme leaves from their stems. Mince the rosemary finely. Slice the garlic thinly.
  5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 475°F. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now. Otherwise, prepare a large baking sheet by brushing it with olive oil.
  6. Step 6: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll or stretch it into your desired shape.
  7. Step 7: Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet or pizza peel if using a stone. Brush the surface with olive oil.
  8. Step 8: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Add the Parmesan next. Scatter all the fresh herbs across the surface and distribute the garlic slices evenly.
  9. Step 9: Bake your Herb Garden Pizza for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  10. Step 10: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired. Cut and serve immediately.

Notes

This pizza is versatile; you can use any combination of fresh herbs you have. For a heartier version, consider adding caramelized onions or cherry tomatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.