Pizza Deliziosa: Topped with Pomodoro, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Crudo

Pizza is a universal favorite, and making it at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of Italy straight to your table. From my own personal experience, crafting a pizza topped with pomodoro, mozzarella, and prosciutto crudo is a delightful mix of simplicity and elegance. The key is in using fresh ingredients and following a straightforward process that guarantees restaurant-quality results. Let me show you how I make this classic Italian treat step-by-step.

Notes on What to Expect When Making Pizza Deliziosa

1. Dough Texture:
   • While kneading, the dough should feel smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but avoid overloading, as this can make the crust dense. After rising, expect the dough to double in size and be easy to roll out.
2. Pre-Baking the Crust:
   • Pre-baking ensures the base is crisp and can hold the toppings without becoming soggy. The crust will puff slightly during this step but remain pliable for topping.
3. Topping Balance:
   • The pomodoro sauce provides a tangy, savory base, complemented by the creaminess of melted mozzarella. Adding the prosciutto crudo after baking ensures it stays soft and retains its delicate, salty flavor.
4. Baking in a Home Oven:
   • While a traditional pizza oven provides a charred crust, a hot home oven with a pizza stone delivers excellent results. Expect a golden-brown crust with evenly melted cheese.
5. Aromatic Garnishes:
   • Adding fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil after baking creates a burst of freshness and enhances the pizza’s visual appeal.
6. Timing Is Key:
   • Work quickly when assembling the pizza to avoid overcooling the pre-baked crust. This keeps the final bake uniform.
7. Overall Experience:
   • Making Pizza Deliziosa is a straightforward process that allows room for creativity. From the comforting scent of rising dough to the aroma of a freshly baked pizza, expect the process to be as satisfying as the result.

By the end, you’ll have a crispy, light crust topped with rich pomodoro, gooey mozzarella, and tender prosciutto crudo. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and refined.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes (cooling before serving)
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Beginner-friendly
• Servings: 4 (makes 2 medium pizzas)
• Calories: ~450 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Moderate (~$12–$15 depending on quality)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pizza stone or baking tray
• Rolling pin
• Kitchen scale (optional)
• Spoon for spreading sauce
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  # Pizza Deliziosa now.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour (or 00 flour for authenticity)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (not too hot)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 cup (240 ml) pomodoro sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 ½ cups (150 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
• 6 slices of prosciutto crudo
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  # Pizza Deliziosa now.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

1. If using store-bought pomodoro sauce, warm it slightly and adjust seasoning if needed. For a homemade version, simmer canned tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and basil for 20 minutes.
2. Slice or shred mozzarella for even distribution on the pizza.

Step 3: Shape and Pre-Bake the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C), placing the pizza stone or baking tray inside to heat.
2. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle or rectangle, depending on preference.
3. Transfer the dough onto parchment paper to make handling easier. Pre-bake for 5 minutes on the heated stone or tray.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Remove the pre-baked crust and spread a thin layer of pomodoro sauce evenly.
2. Add mozzarella, ensuring it’s distributed well across the base.
3. Bake for another 7–10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 5: Add Prosciutto and Garnish

1. Once out of the oven, lay the prosciutto crudo slices gently on the pizza.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Let it stand for 5 minutes before slicing.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the prosciutto and add sliced cherry tomatoes or mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Substitute with gluten-free flour and follow the same process.
• Lactose-Free Version: Use lactose-free mozzarella or dairy-free cheese.
• Extra Flavor: Sprinkle chili flakes or oregano before serving
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  # Pizza Deliziosa now.

  

Notes on What to Expect

Expect a crispy yet airy crust, gooey mozzarella, and the rich, savory taste of prosciutto crudo balanced with the freshness of basil and olive oil. It’s a classic Italian flavor profile that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to achieve at home.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~20 g
• Carbs: ~40 g
• Fat: ~20 g
• Fiber: ~2 g

Closing

I hope this recipe has inspired you to try making Pizza Deliziosa at home! Has this guide made the process seem a little less daunting, or have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please leave your honest comment. 🍕

Here is an image of the Pizza Deliziosa served on a white plate placed on a white table. Enjoy! 🍕