
07/29/2025
Pesto Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomatoes
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water
1 packet (7g) instant yeast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
Toppings:
1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup sliced tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Add the flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven to heat.
Stretch the Dough: Roll out or stretch the dough by hand into a thin circle. Place it on a piece of parchment paper. (I recommend putting the raw dough into the oven for 5 minutes, without the toppings).
Add the Toppings: Spread the pesto evenly over the dough. Top with fresh mozzarella slices and tomatoes.
Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes (or for 6 minutes if, the dough is pre baked) or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.