White Pizza, or Pizza Bianca, is a delightful variation of the traditional pizza that skips the tomato sauce and focuses on the rich, creamy flavors of cheese and garlic. This pizza is perfect for those who love the savory, slightly tangy taste of ricotta paired with the mild creaminess of mozzarella and the sharp bite of Parmesan. The addition of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and a drizzle of olive oil elevates the pizza to a gourmet level. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a simple meal or dressed up with toppings like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even slices of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats up.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the ricotta mixture. If using, sprinkle the chopped rosemary and crushed red pepper flakes on top.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza to the oven (or onto the hot pizza stone if using) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve hot.
Enjoy your White Pizza with a crisp green salad or a glass of your favorite wine!
