Goat Cheese and Olive Pizza

Introduction

Pizza is a beloved dish around the world, celebrated for its versatility and ability to cater to various tastes. Among the myriad of topping combinations, goat cheese and olives stand out as a sophisticated pairing that enhances the overall flavor profile of the pizza. The creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese harmonize beautifully with the briny, rich flavors of olives, creating a culinary experience that is both comforting and gourmet.

This article will guide you through the process of making a delicious goat cheese and olive pizza from scratch, including tips on perfecting the dough, selecting the best ingredients, and baking to perfection.

Ingredients

To create a delightful goat cheese and olive pizza, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 500 grams of all-purpose flour
• 325 ml of warm water (about 37°C or 98°F)
• 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 200 grams of goat cheese, crumbled
• 100 grams of black olives, pitted and sliced (Kalamata or any preferred variety)
• 100 grams of green olives, pitted and sliced
• 150 grams of tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Making the Pizza Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help your dough rise.

2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Preparing the Pizza Toppings

1. Prepare the Olives: While the dough is rising, slice the black and green olives and set them aside. If using whole olives, ensure they are pitted for easy eating.

2. Prepare the Sauce: If you're using store-bought tomato sauce, you can enhance its flavor by simmering it on low heat with some dried herbs like oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper for about 10 minutes. If making homemade sauce, use fresh tomatoes and cook them down with garlic and herbs.

Step 3: Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to its highest setting, typically around 250°C (482°F). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

2. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into two equal portions for two pizzas. On a floured surface, roll out one portion of dough into a round shape, about 12 inches in diameter.

3. Transfer to a Baking Sheet or Pizza Peel: If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it with olive oil or use parchment paper. If using a pizza peel, dust it with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.

4. Spread the Sauce: Using a spoon, spread a layer of tomato sauce over the pizza base, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

5. Add the Toppings: Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese and sliced olives over the sauce. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top for added flavor.

Step 4: Baking the Pizza

1. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza into the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone if using). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Allow it to cool for a minute, then slice and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Goat Cheese and Olive Pizza

• Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your pizza depends on the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh goat cheese, high-quality olives, and homemade or premium tomato sauce for the best results.

• Experiment with Different Olives: Feel free to mix and match olives based on your preference. Try adding marinated olives or tapenade for a unique flavor twist.

• Use a Pizza Stone: If available, using a pizza stone can significantly improve the texture of your crust, making it crispier.

• Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the pizza. This will help achieve a perfectly baked crust.

Variations

While goat cheese and olives make a fantastic combination, consider these variations to customize your pizza:

1. Add More Vegetables:

Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes for added flavor and nutrition.

2. Herb Infusions:

Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile of your pizza.

3. Different Cheeses:

Mix goat cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or blue cheese for a more complex taste.

Pairing Suggestions

Goat cheese and olive pizza can be complemented by various sides and beverages:

• Side Salads: A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette or a classic Greek salad pairs wonderfully with this pizza.

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of garlic or herb-infused olive oil for dipping the crust.

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Pair with refreshing sparkling water, lemonade, or a fruity iced tea to complete your meal.

Conclusion

Goat cheese and olive pizza is a delightful dish that brings together the unique flavors of creamy cheese and briny olives atop a crispy crust. This recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a wonderful option for any gathering or casual night in. With easy preparation steps and customizable toppings, you can make this pizza your own. Enjoy the process of making it from scratch and savor the delicious results!

This comprehensive recipe provides detailed instructions and ideas to create a mouthwatering goat cheese and olive pizza that is sure to please everyone. Happy cooking!