When it comes to dinner and meal ideas, few things can beat the classic appeal of pizza. And today, we're going to explore a unique and delicious white pizza recipe where ricotta and mozzarella join forces in a way that Nonna would surely be proud of.
White pizza, unlike its more well - known red - sauce counterpart, offers a creamy and rich flavor profile. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses creates a decadent topping that is both comforting and indulgent.
Let's start with the ingredients. For the crust, you'll need 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 cup of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 1/2 to 3 cups of all - purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt. The warm water is crucial as it helps to activate the yeast. Simply sprinkle the yeast and sugar over the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Once the yeast is activated, add the flour, olive oil, and salt to the mixture. Start by adding 2 1/2 cups of flour and then gradually add more if needed until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, it's time to prepare the toppings. For the white pizza, the star ingredients are ricotta and mozzarella. You'll need 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 cloves of garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chopped, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Mix the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. This will create a flavorful base for the pizza.
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a circular shape, about 12 - 14 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1/2 - inch border around the edges for the crust.
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer. The mozzarella will melt and create a gooey, stretchy texture that is characteristic of a great pizza. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top. The Parmesan adds a nutty and savory flavor, while the red pepper flakes give a hint of spiciness.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 12 - 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the pizza as ovens can vary in temperature, and you don't want the crust to burn.
Once the pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. The flavors will meld together as it cools, making each bite even more delicious. You can serve this white pizza as a main course for dinner or as an appetizer for a gathering. It pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
In conclusion, this ricotta and mozzarella white pizza is a wonderful addition to your dinner and meal ideas. It's a recipe that combines the traditional flavors of Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Nonna would be proud to see this delicious creation on the dinner table, and you'll surely enjoy every bite of it.
