Introduction

Traybaked pesto pizza pie is a delightful and flavorful dish that merges the rustic charm of homemade pizza with the ease of baking. This recipe combines a crispy pizza crust with vibrant pesto, melty cheeses, and a variety of toppings, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring each pie is uniquely yours.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the dough:
– 500g strong white bread flour
– 7g dried yeast
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 325ml warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the toppings:
– 200g pesto sauce
– 200g mozzarella cheese, grated
– 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Optional: other vegetables or meats of your choice

Prep Time

Prep time for this delicious recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to prepare the dough and gather your toppings.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 25 minutes. The total time from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe yields 4-6 servings, making it suitable for sharing and enjoying with family and friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Tray

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking tray (approximately 30cm x 40cm) with baking paper to prevent sticking.

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine 500g of strong white bread flour, 7g of dried yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 300ml of lukewarm water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Pesto and Toppings

While the dough rises, prepare your pesto and any desired toppings, such as fresh vegetables or cheese.

Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Transfer it to the prepared baking tray and stretch it out evenly to fit the tray.

Add Pesto and Toppings

Spread the pesto over the stretched dough, followed by your chosen toppings. Be generous with the ingredients to create a flavorful pizza pie.

Bake the Pizza Pie

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Slice and Serve

Remove the pizza pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice it into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Variations on Toppings

Feel free to customize the toppings according to your preferences or what you have available. Ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses can enhance the flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Vegan Option

To make this recipe vegan, ensure that your pesto is dairy-free and skip any cheese toppings.

Additional Seasoning

Consider adding seasoning such as chili flakes or cracked pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Cook techniques

Making the Dough

The dough is prepared by mixing flour, yeast, and water, then kneading until smooth. This activates the gluten for better structure.

Resting the Dough

Allow the dough to rest and rise, which enhances its flavor and texture. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy crust.

Shaping the Pizza Pie

Once risen, the dough is rolled out and crafted into the desired shape. This ensures even cooking and allows for proper topping distribution.

Layering Ingredients

Carefully layering pesto, cheese, and any additional toppings not only enhances flavor but also creates a visually appealing pizza pie.

Baking Techniques

Baking at a high temperature ensures a crispy base while keeping the toppings perfectly cooked. A preheated tray can also help achieve better results.

Serving Suggestions

Let the pizza pie cool slightly before slicing. This makes it easier to cut and helps the cheese set, preventing it from sliding off.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought dough is a convenient alternative and can save time.

What other toppings can I add to the pizza pie?

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings such as vegetables, meats, or different cheeses.

How do I know when the pizza is done baking?

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pizza pie. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping it tightly for storage.

Conclusion

The Traybaked Pesto Pizza Pie is a delightful and versatile dish that makes for a fantastic meal or snack option. With its crispy base and flavorful pesto topping, it’s sure to please pizza lovers. Moreover, it’s easy to customize with various toppings, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or family dinners.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Mediterranean Pizza

Try adding sliced olives, artichokes, and feta cheese for a fresh Mediterranean twist.

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Top the pizza with cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, and red onions for a smoky flavor.

Caprese Pizza

Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian taste.

Spicy Pepperoni Pizza

Add a generous amount of pepperoni and a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

Veggie Supreme Pizza

Load up on mixed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty veggie option.

Breakfast Pizza

Use eggs, bacon, and cheese to create a delicious breakfast variation that’s perfect for brunch.