Tomato Pizza

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of Tomato Pizza, fresh out of the oven, with its crispy crust, melted cheese, and vibrant toppings. This delightful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a classic, this Tomato Pizza recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the details that will make your homemade pizza an absolute hit!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Tomato Pizza is a classic that transcends seasons and occasions. The fresh tomatoes burst with flavor, complemented by gooey mozzarella and a hint of garlic. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity; it allows the quality of the ingredients to shine. Here are a few reasons why cooks rave about this Tomato Pizza:

• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella elevates the taste significantly.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the cheese to suit your palate.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe comes together quickly for a weeknight meal.
• Homemade Dough: Nothing beats the satisfaction of making pizza dough from scratch, and it’s much easier than you think!

Ingredient Notes

Creating the perfect Tomato Pizza starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 1 pound pizza dough: This can be homemade or store-bought, but homemade adds a personal touch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor and adds richness.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the pizza with aromatic goodness.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• 1 pound sliced fresh mozzarella cheese: Use high-quality cheese for that perfect melt and stretch.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and depth; sprinkle more for serving.
• 1 pound vine-ripened, Roma, or heirloom tomatoes: Choose the ripest tomatoes for the best taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 6-10 fresh basil leaves (optional): Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that ties the dish together.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pizza stone or baking sheet: A pizza stone helps achieve that crispy crust.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pizza dough evenly.
• Mixing bowl: For mixing and kneading your dough if making it from scratch.
• Knife and cutting board: For slicing tomatoes and cheese.
• Spatula: Handy for transferring the pizza from the baking sheet.

Step-by-Step: Tomato Pizza

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your own Tomato Pizza.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

If you’re making homemade pizza dough, mix your ingredients in a bowl and knead until smooth. Let it rise for about 30 minutes. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for easier handling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your desired shape and thickness. Aim for a 12-inch round for a classic pizza.

Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Garlic

Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the surface with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly over it.

Step 5: Layer the Cheese

Begin layering with half of the sliced fresh mozzarella. This creates a gooey base for your toppings.

Step 6: Arrange the Tomatoes

Slice your tomatoes and lay them out on top of the cheese. Feel free to mix different types of tomatoes for added flavor and color.

Step 7: Seasoning It Up

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes, followed by the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Step 8: Bake the Pizza

Carefully place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a minute. Top with fresh basil leaves and additional parmesan if desired. Slice and serve hot!

Substitutions by Category

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make some tweaks, here are some substitutions to consider:

• Dough: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for a healthier option.
• Cheese: Swap mozzarella for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
• Tomatoes: Canned San Marzano tomatoes can be used if fresh isn’t available.
• Herbs: Use Italian seasoning mix if you don’t have oregano on hand.

Little Things that Matter

When it comes to making the best Tomato Pizza, the details can make all the difference. Consider these tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients; they truly elevate the flavor of the pizza.
• Let the dough rest after rolling to prevent it from shrinking while baking.
• Experiment with different tomato varieties for unique flavor profiles.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s where the magic happens!

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store your Tomato Pizza:

Allow the pizza to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pizza before adding the toppings. Wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an oven rather than a microwave to maintain the crust’s crispiness.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Is it possible to use other toppings?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms, or even meats like pepperoni or cooked chicken for a heartier option.

What’s the best way to slice the tomatoes?

Using a serrated knife can help you slice the tomatoes without squishing them, keeping their shape intact.

How can I achieve a crispier crust?

For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the rolled-out dough for about 5 minutes before adding your toppings. This technique helps set the base.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed making Tomato Pizza, you might also love these delicious recipes:

• Easy Homemade Pizza
• White Pizza with Broccoli
• Easy Gluten-Free Pizza Crust

Make It Tonight

Now that you’re armed with all the tips, tricks, and a delicious Tomato Pizza recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process. The aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through your home is a reward in itself. Plus, there’s nothing quite like sharing a homemade meal with family and friends. So, are you ready to make Tomato Pizza tonight? You won’t regret it!

Tomato Pizza

This Tomato Pizza is a classic delight! Crispy crust, gooey cheese, and vibrant tomatoes come together for a perfect homemade treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound pizza dough homemade or store-bought
• 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic fresh
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pound sliced fresh mozzarella cheese high-quality
• ½ cup parmesan cheese plus more for serving
• 1 pound vine-ripened, Roma, or heirloom tomatoes the ripest for best taste
• salt and pepper to taste
• 6-10 fresh basil leaves optional

Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling Pin
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you're using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
2. If you're making homemade pizza dough, mix your ingredients in a bowl and knead until smooth. Let it rise for about 30 minutes. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for easier handling.
3. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your desired shape and thickness. Aim for a 12-inch round for a classic pizza.
4. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the surface with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly over it.
5. Begin layering with half of the sliced fresh mozzarella. This creates a gooey base for your toppings.
6. Slice your tomatoes and lay them out on top of the cheese. Feel free to mix different types of tomatoes for added flavor and color.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes, followed by the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
8. Carefully place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a minute. Top with fresh basil leaves and additional parmesan if desired. Slice and serve hot!

Notes

• Use high-quality ingredients; they truly elevate the flavor of the pizza.
• Let the dough rest after rolling to prevent it from shrinking while baking.
• Experiment with different tomato varieties for unique flavor profiles.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s where the magic happens!