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Easy Pizza Fondue

Easy Pizza Fondue

Easy Pizza Fondue

 

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 grated Parmesan cheese

1 T. all-purpose flour

2 cloves garlic minced

3/4 cup dry white wine or broth

2/3 cup drained canned diced tomatoes

1 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried basil

1 T. chopped fresh oregano or 1 tsp. dried oregano

 

Serve with:

cubes of crusty bread

pepperoni sticks

salami cubes

cooked sausage chunks

bell pepper chunks

mushrooms

grape tomatoes

ham

pineapple

black olives

 

In a bowl combine the mozzarella, Parmesan and flour. Mix well to coat the cheese with flour. Set aside. In a large saucepan, combine the garlic and wine (or broth), bring to a simmer over medium heat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cheese mixture by the handful to the saucepan, stirring constantly after each addition. Use a spoon and stir in a figure eight motion until the cheese is melted. Stir in the tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, basil and oregano. Cook, stirring, until the tomatoes are heated through, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a fondue pot and serve immediately.

Cheesy Chicken Pizza Pockets

Cheesy Chicken Pizza Pockets

Cheesy Chicken Pizza Pockets

 

1 pound homemade or store-bought pizza dough

1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken

1/3 cup mini pepperoni

1 1/2 cups pizza toppings of choice, such as olives, diced peppers or chopped spinach

2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup homemade or store-bought marinara sauce, divided

1 large egg

1 T.  whole milk

1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp. pizza seasoning or dried oregano

 

Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough into a circle, rectangle or square. (And shape works as long as the width is a minimum of 6 inches.) In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mini pepperoni, additional toppings, cheese and ½ cup of the marinara sauce, stirring until combined. Divide the mixture between each of the pieces of pizza dough, placing it in the center and leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Whisk together the egg and the milk then brush the two edges of the dough nearest the filling with the egg wash. Fold the unfilled side of the dough over the filling and very firmly pinch the two pieces of dough together. Place each pizza pocket on the prepared baking sheet then brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle them with the Parmesan cheese. Cut a small slit in the top of each pizza pocket. Bake the pizza pockets for about 20 minutes or until the tops are golden and the dough is fully baked. Remove the pizza pockets from the oven, sprinkle them with the pizza seasoning and serve them with the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce for dipping.

White Pizza with Bacon, Leeks, and Cream

White Pizza with Bacon, Leeks, and Cream

White Pizza with Bacon, Leeks, and Cream

 

½ pound thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 medium leek, root and leaf ends trimmed off, white and light green part halved lengthwise and then sliced into thin half-moons

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 (14- to 16-ounce) ball pizza dough

4 ounces Fontina, Gruyère, aged Gouda, or sharp Cheddar cheese, finely grated

¼ cup heavy cream, divided

 

Preheat the oven to 500°F (if using a baking sheet) or as high as it will go (if using a baking stone/steel; place the stone/steel in the bottom third of the oven before you start preheating). Let the oven preheat for at least 30 minutes. Then, if you’re using a baking stone or steel, switch the oven to Broil on high. Put the sliced leek in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water, using your fingertips to separate the layers. Drain well, then transfer the leek slices to a paper towel–lined plate and blot them dry. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it just begins to brown at the edges, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Pour the bacon grease into a small ramekin for brushing the dough. Stretch or roll out your dough to a 12- to 14-inch circle, then transfer it to a baking sheet / pizza pan or a lightly floured pizza peel (if using a baking stone/steel). Use a pastry brush to spread a very thin layer of bacon grease all over the dough. Scatter the sliced leeks and cooked bacon on top, then sprinkle with the cheese. Drizzle the toppings with half of the heavy cream. Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake until the crust is golden around the edges and evenly browned on the bottom—8 to 10 minutes on the baking sheet, 6 to 8 minutes on the baking stone/steel. Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining heavy cream over top. Wait 3 to 5 minutes for the cream to congeal, then slice and serve.

Easy Pizza Bake

Easy Pizza Bake

Easy Pizza Bake

 

1 (16-oz) pkg ground pork sausage

2 (7.5-oz) cans refrigerated biscuits

1 (15-oz) can pizza sauce

1 (8-oz) pkg shredded mozzarella cheese

1 (3.5-oz) pkg pepperoni

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbly; drain and transfer to a large bowl. Cut each biscuit into 8 pieces; add to sausage. Stir in pizza sauce and 1 cup cheese. Spoon into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup cheese and pepperoni. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown and biscuits are done.

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

 

PAM® Grilling Spray

3/4 cup Manwich® Original Sloppy Joe Sauce (from 15-oz can)

2 plain naan flatbreads (10 inch oval)

1-1/4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

5 slices thin-sliced smoked ham, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple

1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

 

Spray cold grate of gas grill with grilling spray. Preheat grill for medium heat. Spread Sloppy Joe sauce on flatbreads; sprinkle evenly with cheese, ham, pineapple and bell pepper. Grill 5 to 7 minutes or until crust is crisp and cheese is melted. Tips: Grill pizzas on piece of aluminum foil, sprayed with grilling spray, to prevent excessive browning.  If oval shaped flatbreads are not available, substitute four 6-inch pitas

Chicken Cordon Bleu French Bread Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu French Bread Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu French Bread Pizza

 

1 loaf french bread

1 (16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce (or homemade Alfredo sauce)

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

4 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded swiss cheese

2 cups cooked breaded chicken (diced)

½ cup cooked ham (diced)

¼ cup bacon bits

4 green onions (thinly sliced)

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut loaf of French bread lengthwise and place on a large baking sheet (I just used a cookie sheet). Spread alfredo sauce evenly over bread (as much or as little as you like). Sprinkle garlic salt and Italian seasoning on top of sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese, swiss cheese, cooked chicken pieces, ham, bacon bits and green onions. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until cheese starts to melt. Cut into slices and serve

Herby Flatbread

Herby Flatbread

Herby Flatbread

 

2 ½ C. flour

1 ½ tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. sea salt

¼ C. olive oil

¼ C. Greek yogurt

8 ounces water

3 green onions, chopped

Small handful cilantro, chopped

Small handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped

About 10 leaves of fresh mint leaves, chopped

 

Whisk together your flour, baking powder and salt. Add the olive oil, Greek yogurt, and water, and work the dough until it’s a nice, smooth mass. dd the green onions and herbs and work this into the dough so it’s evenly distributed. Divide the dough into four pieces and if you’re not going to make it right away, simply pop them in a plastic bag with a drizzle of olive oil and refrigerate. It’ll keep for a day or two. To cook the flatbread, preheat the oven to 450°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Roll out each ball of dough with a rolling pin or just use the palm of your hands to flatten it—it’s very easy to work with—and cook for about 15 minutes or until golden brown on the edges. Serve right away while it’s still warm. Any leftovers can be saved in a plastic bag in the fridge then reheated in the toaster.

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

Cheesy French Bread Pizza

 

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 (1-pound) loaf French bread, halved lengthwise

8 ounces shredded low-moisture mozzarella, divided

1 cup jarred marinara sauce, such as Rao’s

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

On the side: Mixed green salad

 

Heat the oven to 425 degrees with a rack placed in the upper third of the oven. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until aromatic, 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place the bread halves cut-side down on a cutting board. Place a large baking sheet on top of the bread and press down firmly to flatten. Flip right-side up and place on the baking sheet. Brush with the garlic butter. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the bread halves. Transfer to the oven and cook until the cheese is melted, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the sauce, followed by the remaining cheese and return to the oven. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and browned, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with the parsley and drizzle with olive oil. Cut into slices and serve with salad on the side.

 

Servings: 4

Calories: 794

Fat: 41g

Fiber: 5g

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

 

10 leftover meatballs, sliced into rounds

2 T. butter

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 T. flour

1 cup milk

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

½ C. pesto

1 loaf French bread

1 cup Mozzarella, grated

 

Put slices of meatball in a bowl and toss with pesto – set aside. Melt butter in a medium pot on low heat, add garlic. Cook about a minute or until just fragrant then whisk in flour. Continue stirring and cook about a minute until it becomes a thick paste. Add milk and whisk to incorporate. When it starts to thicken, add Parmesan cheese and stir well until thick & smooth. Preheat broiler. Cut french bread lengthwise and add a generous layer of the cheese sauce to both cut sides. Add a layer of meatballs and top with mozzarella. Place under the broiler until bubbly, melty and gorgeous. Slice & serve.

Eggs in a Nest Pesto Pizza

Eggs in a Nest Pesto Pizza

Eggs in a Nest Pesto Pizza

 

1 7 inch whole grain pita bread (do not split in half)

2 tsp. fresh basil pesto

1/3 cup shredded mozzarella

1/2 cup packed baby arugula (or spinach)

1 large egg

pinch salt

pinch grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

pinch red pepper flakes, for serving

 

Preheat oven to 450F. Put the pita bread on a baking sheet. Spread the pesto evenly over the top of the pita, coming to just shy of the edge. Sprinkle the mozzarella over the pesto. Lay the arugula on top of the cheese to form a ring of greens, leaving a space in the center that’s the size of a cooked egg. Crack the egg into the center of the pita so it drops into the space and the ring of the arugula holds the egg in place. Sprinkle with pinch salt and fresh cracked pepper over the top. Put the pizza in the oven and bake until the egg is cooked to your liking. For a soft egg, cook until the white is just firm and the yolk is still soft, about 10 minutes. For a firm yolk, cook another 2 minutes or so. Finish with grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Remove from the oven and cut into quarters.

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

 

1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza dough

½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

½ (6-oz) pkg pepperoni

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ (24-oz) jar pasta sauce

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Unroll dough on a clean flat surface. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Top with pepperoni and mozzarella, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides; roll up. Place, seam side down, on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cut 1-inch slits in top of roll at 2-inch intervals. Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown; let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Heat pasta sauce according to package directions; serve with stromboli for dipping.

Asparagus Pizza with Goat Cheese, Lemon and Anchovies

Asparagus Pizza with Goat Cheese, Lemon and Anchovies

Asparagus Pizza with Goat Cheese, Lemon and Anchovies

1 16-ounce ball of pizza dough, homemade or store-bought

4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 3/4 cup)

2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled (about 1/4 cup)

3/4 pound asparagus, prepared for pizza (see note)

Grated zest of 1 small or 1/2 large lemon

Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

8 anchovy fillets (optional)

 

Preheat oven (with a pizza stone if you have one) to 500 degrees for 30 minutes. If your pizza dough has been refrigerated, let it sit, covered, at room temperature for about the same amount of time. When the dough and oven have come to temperature, place the dough on a lightly floured countertop, and press outward into a thick disk, leaving a 1-inch unpressed area around the edge. Pick up the disk and let it drape over the backs of your hands, letting gravity help you stretch it into a 14-inch circle. If the dough resists, let it relax for a few minutes, then try again. If you have a pizza stone, place the stretched dough on a peel (or overturned baking sheet or cutting board) that’s lightly dusted with semolina or other flour. Otherwise, just build the pizza on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet. Scatter the mozzarella and goat cheese over the pizza, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge, then top with the asparagus. If using a pizza stone, give the peel or sheet a little shake to loosen the pizza and make sure it hasn’t stuck, then open the oven and gently tip the pizza onto your preheated stone (or, if not using a stone, simply transfer the pizza to the oven). Bake until the crust bubbles and browns and the asparagus is cooked and starting to caramelize at the edges, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool for a minute or two. Scatter the lemon zest and pepper flakes and anchovies, if using, over the top, then slice and serve. Note: Snap ends off asparagus. Use thin spears whole, or cut into pieces. For thick spears, use a vegetable peeler to shave slices from base to tip. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Pepperoni Bread

Pepperoni Bread

Pepperoni Bread

 

13.8 ounces package refrigerated pizza dough

6 ounces sliced pepperoni

8 ounces sliced provolone cheese

3 T. butter

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray.

Remove the pizza dough from the canister and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface or parchment so that it measures into a rectangle about 10 X 15 – inches. Beginning at one of the longer ends, place the pepperoni in an overlapping layer down the length of the dough. Tear a few of the provolone slices in half and place over the pepperoni. Pull the dough up from under the pepperoni and roll it over the cheese so that it sticks to the dough beyond the pepperoni. Repeat adding the pepperoni and cheese and rolling until you have completely rolled the dough. Place the roll seam side down onto the prepared rimmed baking sheet. You may have to curve it so that it fits. In a microwavable-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 30 seconds. Mix in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush completely over the Pepperoni Bread. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove to a large cutting board to set for about 3 – 5 minutes before cutting to serve.

Zoodle Pizza Casserole

Zoodle Pizza Casserole

Zoodle Pizza Casserole

Nonstick cooking spray

3 10 ounces zucchini

1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz.)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 T. cornmeal

1 8 ounce can pizza sauce

½ cup miniature sliced pepperoni

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a 3-qt. rectangular baking dish with cooking spray. Using a vegetable spiralizer, julienne cutter, or mandoline, cut zucchini into long, thin noodles (zoodles). Place in a colander and sprinkle with salt; toss gently. Let stand 15 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels. In a large bowl combine eggs, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, the Parmesan cheese, flour, and cornmeal. Stir in zoodles. Transfer to prepared dish. Bake 10 minutes or until set and no excess liquid remains. Spread with pizza sauce. Top with remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese and pepperoni. Bake 15 to 20 minutes more or until cheese is light brown.

 

If you don’t have a spiralizer, julienne cutter, or mandoline, coarsely shred the zucchini, or halve the zucchini lengthwise and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces. Continue as directed.

 

8 servings. 191 calories, (5 g saturated fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 2 g monounsaturated fat), 75 mg cholesterol, 678 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 4 g sugar, 13 g protein.

Pizza Waffles

Pizza Waffles

Pizza Waffles

1 package crescent rolls (8 pieces)
1 1/3 C. mozzarella cheese
pepperoni (or your favorite pizza toppings)
pizza sauce for dipping

Preheat waffle iron and spray with cooking spray. Unroll crescent rolls. You will have 8 triangles. Pinch seams to connect 2 triangles so you form 4 rectangles. Place 1/3 C. mozzarella cheese and pepperoni in each rectangle. Fold over and pinch to seal all sides. Repeat with remaining sections. Place each piece of dough on the preheated waffle iron. Close and cook 5 minutes or until browned. Serve warm with pizza sauce for dipping.

Where’s the Crust Pizza

Where’s the Crust Pizza

crust
Crust
1 (8 oz) package of full fat cream cheese, room temperature
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 C. grated parmesan cheese

Topping
1/2 C. pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
toppings – pepperoni, ham, sausage, mushrooms, peppers
Garlic powder

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. With a handheld mixer, mix cream cheese, eggs, pepper, garlic powder and parmesan cheese until combined. Spread into baking dish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow crust to cool for 10 minutes. Spread pizza sauce on crust. Top with cheese and toppings. Sprinkle pizza with garlic powder. Bake 8-10 minutes, until cheese is melted.

Artichoke and Feta Puff Pastry Pizza

Artichoke and Feta Puff Pastry Pizza

1 sheet frozen puff pastry (half a 17.3oz box)
1/2 C drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1 jar (6oz) marinated artichoke hearts, drained
1 C (4oz) pre-crumbled feta cheese
1/3 C pre-chopped pecans or pine nuts (optional)
1 tsp chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 tsp dried

Preheat oven to 400. Place the puff pastry on a baking sheet or pizza stone and let thaw while you prepare the toppings. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and the artichoke hearts. Unfold the puff pastry and roll it out to an 8″ square or 8×10″ rectangle, using a rolling pin. Sprinkle on the feta cheese, followed by chopped tomatoes, artichokes, nuts, if using, and oregano. Bake until the pastry puffs up tall and is golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and immediately cut the pizza into squares, with a pizza cutter, and serve.

Easy Pull Apart Pizza Bread

Easy Pull Apart Pizza Bread

1605740f46d196aaf34e77cfb0277d0a2 Cans of Pizza Dough or Biscuits
2 cups Mozzarella cheese (or your favorite cheese)
2 tablespoons of a really good Italian seasoning (link in post) or parsley flakes
â…“ cup olive oil
8 oz. package of pepperoni
1 cup Parmesan cheese
Optional: Add a ½ teaspoon of fresh garlic or garlic powder (it’s amazing)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cut pizza dough or biscuits into quarters (as shown in the photo). Cut the pepperoni into smaller pieces. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and toss so that the oil is spread evenly on each piece of dough. Bake for about 30 minutes (or until the top is brown and the center is thoroughly cooked) TIP: Be sure to check it in the middle before you pull it out. If the middle is still not cooked thoroughly be sure to leave it in another 5 minutes at a time until it’s done. Flip over on to a plate while it’s still hot. Serve with a side sauce and enjoy!

Bacon Cheeseburger French Pizza

Bacon Cheeseburger French Pizza

132faafbf-0a51-494e-8cc1-825a84ef9f05 loaf (1 pound) unsliced French bread
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 jar (14oz) pizza sauce
1 large tomato, seeded and chopped
8 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
2 C. finely shredded pizza cheese blend (mozzarella and Cheddar)

Heat oven to 400. Cut bread loaf horizontally in half. Cut bread halves crosswise in half to make 4 pieces (to fit on cookie sheet). Arrange on large ungreased cookie sheet. Cook beef and onion in 10″ skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain. Stir in pizza sauce. Spread beef mixture over bread. Sprinkle with tomato, bacon and cheese. Bake 12-15 minutes or until pizza is hot and cheese is melted.

Serrano Ham & Potato Phyllo Pizza with Grated Mahon Cheese

Serrano Ham & Potato Phyllo Pizza with Grated Mahon Cheese

 

7 ea. 17 x 12-inch sheets Phyllo, stacked between 2 sheets of wax paper
¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
2 oz. Serrano ham, chopped
1 lb. Red potatoes, washed and dried
1½ tsp. Dried rosemary, crumbled
2 cups Mahon, grated

In a preheated 325º F (~160ºC) oven toast the walnuts for 7 to 9 minutes or until lightly golden. Brush a baking sheet lightly with some of the oil. Lay one sheet of phyllo on the baking sheet and brush it lightly with some of the remaining oil. Place another sheet of phyllo on top of the bottom sheet and press firmly so it adheres to the bottom sheet. Oil and layer the remaining phyllo, ending with oil. Using a mandolin or hand slicer, cut the potatoes into paper-thin slices, overlapping them, on the dough, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the ham over the potatoes, sprinkle with rosemary and Mahon, and drizzle with any remaining oil. Bake the pizza at 400ºF (200ºC) over for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the potatoes are tender. With pizza wheel or sharp knife cut into squares. Serve at room temperature.

Bacon-Avocado Griddle Pizza

Bacon-Avocado Griddle Pizza

Bacon-Avocado-Griddle-Pizza1 C. lukewarm water (105-115 degrees)
2 1/4 C. flour
1 pkg. active dry yeast (1/4oz)
1 tsp. sugar
Salt
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1 shallot, thinly sliced crosswise
1/4 C. EVOO, plus more for brushing
1 T. balsamic vinegar
Pepper
3 avocados
1 12oz package bacon
1 bunch watercress

In a large glass, whisk together the water, 1 T. flour, the yeast and sugar; let stand until foamy, about 6 minutes. Using a food processor, combine the remaining flour and 1 tsp. salt. With the machine on, pour in the yeast mixture and process until the dough forms a ball. Mix for another minute, then transfer to a large greased bowl, turning the dough to coat. Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss together the tomatoes, shallot, olive oil and vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Let stand at room temperature. In a medium bowl, mash the avocados; press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to cover. Preheat a large skillet; add the bacon and cook, turning once, until crisp, 12-15 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Preheat a griddle over high heat or an electric griddle to 400. On a lightly floured work surface, divide the dough into 4 pieces, then flatten each one into a disk. Stretch each disk into a 10″ round (if dough is too elastic, let rest for 5 minutes). Brush one side of each round with olive oil and, working in batches if necessary, transfer to the griddle, oiled sides down. Cook, lightly brushing the tops with more oil and flipping once, until browned, about 6 minutes on each side. Transfer to a cutting board. Spread the avocado evenly on each crust, leaving 3/4″ border. Toss the watercress with the tomato mixture and scatter over the pizzas. Crumble the bacon on top.

Super-Small Deep-Dish Pizzas

Super-Small Deep-Dish Pizzas

14_01_culinary_pizzas1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

1/2 cup red wine

1 tablespoon minced oregano

2 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 (16-ounce) can store-bought biscuit dough

1/2-pound Italian sausage, casings removed

1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tomatoes, wine, oregano, and garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat; season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside and let cool.  Cut each piece of biscuit dough into thirds. Lightly grease 24 small (2-inch) tart shell tins and place a piece in the center of each. Gently press and spread dough along the bottom and up the sides of the tin. {Tip: If you don’t have small tart shell tins, use a muffin tin.} Press 1 tablespoon of the sausage into each piece of dough and top with a sprinkle of peppers. Toss mozzarella and half of the Parmesan in a small bowl and sprinkle mixture over top. Spoon 1 tablespoon of sauce over the cheeses and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cheese begins to bubble and crusts are golden brown. Let pizzas cool for a few minutes before removing from pans. Serve warm.

Grill-Friendly Pizza Dough

Grill-Friendly Pizza Dough

1 packet instant yeast

1 lb. all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading and rolling out

1 T. sugar

1 T. kosher salt

1 C. hot water

2 T. olive oil, plus more to oil the dough

 

Grill-Friendly Pizza Dough

Combine the yeast, flour, sugar, and salt, in that order, in a large mixing bowl. In a small mixing bowl combine the water and olive oil and then stir into the flour mixture with a large wooden spoon until a dough starts to form. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 10 minutes, or until the dough develops a silky texture.  Oil the surface of the dough and place it in another large metal mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours. Divide the dough in half and with a rolling pin roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.  Heat grill to medium-low, Cook the dough on one side until firm and lightly browned, then turn, add your favorite toppings, and cook until lightly browned on the other side.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Pizza Dough

Pizza Dough

1 1/2 C. Beer

1 1/2 tsp. Salt

1 T. Sugar

2 T. Shortening

4 1/2 C. Bread Flour

2 tsp. Yeast

 

Measure ingredients into pan in order listed.  Select the pasta/dough setting.  When cycle is complete, remove dough and knead in enough flour to make dough easy to handle.  Grease 3 12” pans and sprinkle with cornmeal if desired.  Divide dough into 3 pieces.  Roll out dough and place on pan.  Top pizza as desired and bake 15-25 minutes at 425 degrees.

Vitamix Pizza Soup

Vitamix Pizza Soup

Vitamix Pizza Soup

1 garlic clove

½ cup (80 g) onion, peeled, diced

4 (40 g) mushrooms, sliced

½ cup (75 g) green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, diced

1 Tablespoon olive oil

8 slices (16 g) pepperoni

1½ ounce italian sausage, cooked, drained, broken into small pieces

1½ cup (360 ml) water, or vegetable stock

3 Roma tomatoes, diced

2 ½ Tablespoon (45 ml) tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

¾ teaspoon salt

½ cup (55 g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 Tablespoons (10 g) grated Parmesan cheese

 

Sauté garlic, onion, mushrooms, green pepper, and one Roma tomato in the olive oil until tender. Mix pepperoni and cooked sausage together in a small bowl. Set aside. Place water, half of the sautéed vegetable mixture, 2 tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 1-3 minutes or until heavy steam escapes from the vented lid. Reduce speed to Variable 2 and remove the lid plug. Add remaining half of sautéed vegetables, meat mixture, and cheeses through the lid plug opening. Blend for an additional 5-10 seconds.

Baby Heirloom Tomato Burrata Pizza with Basil Pesto

Baby Heirloom Tomato Burrata Pizza with Basil Pesto

Baby Heirloom Tomato Burrata Pizza with Basil Pesto

3/4 c. warm water

1 tsp. active dry yeast

1 tsp. honey

1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour

1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 T. olive oil

 

1 c. fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

6 cloves garlic, minced

2 T. pine nuts, finely chopped

1/4 c. freshly grated parmesan cheese

zest of 1/2 a lemon

juice of 1/2 a lemon

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

4 T. olive oil, divided

1/2 lb. baby heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced

2 balls (8 oz.) burrata cheese

extra grated parm

extra chopped fresh basil for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 450℉. Begin by making the dough. Add warm water, yeast, and honey to a large bowl. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until bubbles form at the top. Add both flours, salt, and olive oil and stir until it starts to form a dough. Work it together using your hands onto a clean, dry countertop dusted with flour to prevent sticking. Knead for 5 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic. Form dough into a ball and place back in bowl and cover with a dish towel. Set aside. Make the garlic oil. Heat 3 T. of olive oil over medium heat and add half of the chopped garlic. Sauté, swirling the pan around frequently, for 2 minutes or until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside. Make the pesto. Combine basil, the remaining half of the chopped garlic, the pine nuts, parmesan, lemon juice and zest, salt, pepper, and remaining T. of olive oil in a small bowl. Stir to combine. Lightly flour the countertop. Turn the dough out onto the countertop and use heel of your hand to press and stretch the dough out into a large rectangle shape (or circle if you have a pizza stone) until it’s about a 1/4-inch thick or less. If you want a super thin crust, you can use a rolling pin, but it isn’t necessary. Put the dough onto a parchment lined baking sheet (I also rubbed the parchment with a little olive oil). Brush with about half of the garlic oil. Next, tear the balls of burrata into pieces onto the pizza dough. Then, lay the tomatoes on top. Next, sprinkle on the pesto. Top it with a little extra grated parm. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden around the edges and the cheese starts to get bubbly and golden too. Mine was perfect at 24 minutes. Let cool for several minutes before slicing. Top with extra chopped fresh basil and enjoy!

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

2  Flatbread  or pizza rounds

1/2 C. prepared alfredo sauce

2 C. fully cooked grilled chicken strips

5 slices  Canadian Bacon

1 1/4 C. mozzarella cheese shredded

fresh parsley for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Assemble pizza by layering on alfredo, chicken, Canadian bacon, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melty. Slice and enjoy!

Goat Cheese and Red Pepper Pizza

Goat Cheese and Red Pepper Pizza

2/3 cup warm water (105º to 115ºF)

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

2 cups whole wheat flour, preferably white whole wheat, divided

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons olive oil, preferably extra virgin

5 ounces low-fat soft goat cheese

1 large clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried

Ground black pepper

1 C. Roasted Red Peppers, drained and cut into strips

 

Prepare the dough for the crust: Coat a large bowl with vegetable oil spray; set aside. In a glass measuring cup, mix the water and the yeast to dissolve. In the bowl of a food processor, combine 1 3/4 cups flour and the salt. Pulse to mix. Add the oil to the yeast water. With the machine running, add the yeast water through the feed tube. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the mixture forms a moist ball. Transfer the dough to a work surface lightly floured with some of the remaining 1/4 cup flour. With your hands, knead for about 1 minute, or until the dough is smooth. Use scant amounts of any remaining flour only to prevent surface sticking. Some flour may not be needed. Place the dough in the prepared bowl. Coat lightly with vegetable oil spray. Cover with plastic wrap. Set aside to rise for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. To make the pizza: Coat a 14″ round pizza pan with vegetable oil spray. Punch down the dough. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface. Let stand for 5 minutes. With floured hands or a rolling pin, pat or roll into a 14″ circle. Transfer to the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375F. In a small bowl, combine the cheese, garlic, and oregano. Season with black pepper to taste. Dapple the crust with the crumbled cheese mixture. Scatter the red pepper strips on top of the cheese. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with basil. Cut into eighths and serve at once.

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 300

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 8g

Wild Mushroom Pizza with Truffle Oil

Wild Mushroom Pizza with Truffle Oil

1 tsp. sugar
1 package quick-rise yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp.)
1/2 C. warm water (100 to 110)
1 1/2 C. all-purpose flour, divided
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
Cooking spray
2 tsp. cornmeal
2 tsp. olive oil
2 C. thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps (about 4 oz.)
2 C. sliced cremini mushrooms (about 4 oz.)
1 1/2 C. (1/4-inch-thick) slices portobello mushrooms (about 4 oz.)
2/3 C. (about 2 1/2 oz.) grated fontina cheese, divided
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1/2 tsp. truffle oil
1/4 C. (1 oz.) grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp. sea salt

Dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water in a large bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring C.; level with a knife. Add 1 1/4 C. flour and 1/4 tsp. salt to yeast mixture, and stir until a soft dough forms. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes); add enough of remaining flour, 1 T. at a time, to prevent dough from sticking to hands (dough will feel tacky). Place dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85), free from drafts, 30 minutes or until doubled in size. (Gently press two fingers into dough. If indentation remains, dough has risen enough.) Punch dough down; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; sprinkle with cornmeal. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Place dough on prepared baking sheet. Crimp edges of dough with fingers to form a rim; let rise 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 475. While dough rises, heat 2 tsp. olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 tsp. salt and mushrooms, and cook 7 minutes or until mushrooms soften and moisture almost evaporates, stirring frequently. Sprinkle 1/4 C. fontina evenly over dough, and arrange the mushroom mixture evenly over fontina. Sprinkle with thyme; drizzle evenly with truffle oil. Sprinkle remaining fontina and Parmesan cheese evenly over top. Bake at 475 for 15 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Remove to cutting board, and sprinkle with sea salt. Cut into 8 slices. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 331
Fat: 10.6g
Fiber: 3.1g

Shrimp Pizza with Radicchio and Fontina

Shrimp Pizza with Radicchio and Fontina

c_RC_138_rt_Pizza-with-Radicchio-and-Fontina_RT

6 cloves garlic

olive oil, to cover

6 large shrimp, peeled, deveined and halved lengthwise

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus olive oil for drizzling

salt and coarsely ground pepper

1/2 recipe Neapolitan pizza dough, completed through the second rising

1/4 head radicchio, core removed and coarsely chopped

1 1/2 tablespoons finely shredded fresh basil

4-5 oz fontina cheese, sliced

Neapolitan Pizza Dough 

 

FOR GARLIC: Peel the garlic but leave the cloves whole. In a small, heavy saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the garlic cloves with just enough olive oil to cover. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook the garlic until it is covered with golden dots, about 15 minutes. Watch carefully, as the garlic burns easily. Remove from the heat, let cool and then drain off the oil. Set the garlic aside. Reserve the oil for another use such as drizzling over grilled fish or vegetables. FOR PIZZA: Place a pizza stone or unglazed terra-cotta tiles on the lowest rack of an oven. Preheat to 500 degrees F. In a small bowl, mix together the shrimp, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Place the ball of dough on a lightly floured pizza peel or rimless baking sheet. Sprinkle a little more flour on the top of the dough and, using your fingertips, press evenly into a round, flat disk about 1 1/2 inches thick and 5 inches in diameter. Lift the dough and gently stretch it with your fingers and then over the backs of your fists, using the weight of the dough to allow it to grow in size. While you are stretching the dough, gently rotate the disk. Continue stretching and rotating the dough until it is about 1/4 inch thick and 9 inches in diameter and has a rim about 1/2 inch thick. Try not to let the center of the disk become too thin in comparison to the edges. Dust the peel or baking sheet with more flour and gently lay the disk in the center. Scatter the radicchio, garlic and basil over the dough. Top evenly with the cheese and, finally, with the shrimp. Season to taste with salt and pepper and drizzle with a little extra-virgin olive oil. Gently shake the peel or baking sheet back and forth to make sure the pizza has not stuck to it. If it has, gently lift off the stuck section and sprinkle a little more flour underneath. Using the peel or baking sheet like a large spatula, quickly slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or tiles. Bake until the edges are golden and crisp, 8-9 minutes. Remove the pizza with a large metal spatula and slide it onto a dinner plate. Drizzle with additional extra-virgin olive oil, if desired, and serve at once.

Neapolitan Pizza Dough

Neapolitan Pizza Dough

A Neapolitan pizza crust must be thin, but not cracker-thin as is traditional in Rome. If you prefer an extra-crisp super-thin crust, roll the dough into a round 11 inches (28 cm) in diameter rather than the 9 inches (23 cm) specified in the pizza recipes. Note that these directions make enough for 2 crusts. This pizza recipe calls for only half that amount. You can refrigerate the extra dough for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month, or double the topping ingredients in the recipes and make 2 pizzas.

 

1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/4 cup lukewarm water (105 degrees F)

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup cold water

1 2/3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour, plus flour for kneading

3/4 teaspoon salt

 

In a large mixing bowl, stir the yeast into the lukewarm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes. Stir in the olive oil and the cold water, and then whisk in 1/2 cup of the flour and the salt, stirring until smooth. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a rough mass. On a lightly floured work surface, knead the dough until smooth and velvety, 8 to 10 minutes. It will be soft. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rest for 15 minutes. Divide into 2 equal portions, knead briefly, then roll each portion into a smooth, tight round ball. To use the dough immediately, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and set the balls on it. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let rise for 1 hour, then stretch and top the dough as directed in each recipe. You may also store one or both balls of dough until ready to use. For short-term storage and for a slow rise resulting in more flavor, place the dough balls on a small baking pan lined with a kitchen towel, cover them with a second towel and refrigerate for up to 48 hours; remove from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before forming the pizza. For longer storage, slip each flour-dusted ball into a plastic freezer bag, seal tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Before use, place the frozen dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for about 2 hours at room temperature. The thawed dough should be puffy and soft to the touch.

Pizza Bianca

Pizza Bianca

2/3 cup warm water (105º to 115ºF)

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

2 cups whole wheat flour, preferably white whole wheat, divided

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons olive oil, preferably extra virgin

1 tablespoon olive oil, preferably extra virgin

3/4 cup chopped onion

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup shredded swiss or gruyere cheese

To prepare the dough for the crust: Coat a large bowl with vegetable oil spray; set aside. In a glass measuring cup, mix the water and the yeast to dissolve. In the bowl of a food processor, combine 1 3/4 cups flour and the salt. Pulse to mix. Add the oil to the yeast water. With the machine running, add the yeast water through the feed tube. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the mixture forms a moist ball. Transfer the dough to a work surface lightly floured with some of the remaining 1/4 cup flour. With your hands, knead for about 1 minute, or until the dough is smooth. Use scant amounts of any remaining flour only to prevent surface sticking. Some flour may not be needed. Place the dough in the prepared bowl. Coat lightly with vegetable oil spray. Cover with plastic wrap. Set aside to rise for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. To make the pizza: Coat a 14″ round pizza pan with vegetable oil spray. Punch down the dough. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface. Let stand for 5 minutes. With floured hands or a rolling pin, pat or roll into a 14″ circle. Transfer to the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Set a skillet over high heat for 1 minute. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan. Heat for 30 seconds. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, and salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until golden. Spread the mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Sprinkle on the cheese. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Cut into 8 slices.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 170

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 4g

Mega Meatball Pizza

Mega Meatball Pizza

1 pizza dough, store bought or from your favorite pizza shop

A palm full all-purpose flour or cornmeal

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling, plus 2 T. – 2 turns of the pan

2 T. finely chopped rosemary leaves, a couple of sprigs

Coarse salt

1 1/2 lb. ground sirloin

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 to 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Black pepper

1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste

1/2 C. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

A handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped

1 tsp. dried oregano

3/4 lb. fresh mozzarella or brick mozzarella, your choice, sliced or grated

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. On a round pizza stone or pan or on a rectangular baking sheet, using flour or cornmeal to dust the dough, spread out the dough to form your crust. If you are using a baking sheet, drizzle pan with extra-virgin olive oil then set crust in place. Poke the pizza dough in several areas with the tines of a fork. Drizzle the dough with extra-virgin olive oil then season it with finely chopped rosemary and a little salt. Place in oven 10 minutes. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan, then the meat. Brown and crumble meat a couple of minutes, then add onions and garlic. Season the meat with salt and pepper then work in the tomato paste using the back of a wooden spoon to combine. Stir in the cheese, parsley and oregano. Remove pizza crust from oven and top with meat. Arrange cheese over the pizza, working to edges. Return the pizza to the oven and bake until cheese is golden, another 10 to 12 minutes.

Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

1 T. honey
1 package dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp.)
1 C. warm water (100-110F)
2 C. whole-wheat flour – divided
1 C. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. salt

Dissolve honey and yeast in warm water in the large bowl of your mixer. Let stand 5 minutes until yeast has “bloomed”. Add 1 3/4 C. whole-wheat flour, 1 C. all-purpose flour, oil, and salt. Mix with the paddle attachement of the mixer to form a soft dough. Attach the dough hook to the mixer. Knead on medium speed for 10-15 minutes until dough is elastic and will form a “window-pane” when stretched. Add remaining whole-wheat flour while kneading to prevent dough from sticking too much to the bottom of the mixing bowl. Place dough in a large bowl coated with an additional tsp. olive oil. Turn the dough to coat the top. Cover dough with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place (~85F) 1 hour or until doubled in size. Turn oven on to 500F. Make sure your pizza stone is on the bottom rack [if you use a cookie sheet; preheat oven to 400F]. Punch dough down, cover, and let rest 5 minutes. Divide dough in half. Make each half into a ball. Flatten ball into a circle and strech dough until you have a circle about 12″ in diameter. Bake entire pizza in preheated oven for 5-10 minutes; until dough is golden on the bottom and cheese is bubbling.

Yield: 2 12″ pizza crusts
Each Crust:
Calories: 650
Fat: 4.9g
Fiber: 14.7g

Garlic Chicken Pizza

Garlic Chicken Pizza

4 oz. light cream cheese; softened
1/4 C. nonfat sour cream
2 cloves garlic; mashed
2 boned and skinned chicken breast halves (8oz); cooked and diced
1/2 red onion; cut in rings
1/2 tomato; chopped
1/2 C. mushrooms; sliced
1 C. part skim mozzarella cheese; shredded (4oz.)
1 black bean thin pizza crust

Mix together cream cheese, sour cream and mashed garlic until smooth. Spread on pizza crust, top with chicken, onion, tomato and mushrooms and cheese. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 minutes or until crust is done and cheese is melted. Top with parmesan cheese.

Yield: 8 slices
Calories: 240
Fat: 7.8
Fiber: 1.8

Note: While this may not seem that different in calories from a store bought chicken pizza, the fat is about half per slice, the fiber about double per slice, and the sodium is far far lower than what you get from the freezer case or in a pizzaria. You can use a diferent low fat pizza crust if you prefer. Stats on the Black Bean Pizza Crust: 918 calories, 2g fat, 12.5g fiber

BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza

(12 inch) pre-baked pizza crust
1 C. spicy barbeque sauce
2 skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and cubed
1/2 C. chopped fresh cilantro
1 C. sliced pepperoncini peppers
1 C. chopped red onion
2 C. shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place pizza crust on a medium baking sheet. Spread the crust with barbeque sauce. Top with chicken, cilantro, pepperoncini peppers, onion, and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings Per Recipe: 8 amount
Calories 386
Total Fat 16.1g
Fiber 1.7g

BBQ Chicken Pizza Too

BBQ Chicken Pizza Too

1 T. honey
1 cup warm water
2 tsp. active dry yeast
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
10 oz. chicken breast – boned and skinned
1 T. olive oil
2 T. barbecue sauce
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 cups Gouda cheese
1/4 small red onion – sliced into rings
2 T. cilantro

To make the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the honey in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir until it dissolves. Let the yeast mixture stand for 5 minutes, until a layer of foam forms on the surface. In a large bowl, combine the flour and the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the olive oil and the yeast mixture. Stir the flour into the wet ingredients, until all the flour is incorporated. If its too dry, add more water. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 15 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball and put in in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with a moist towel and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk (about 1 1/2 hours). One hour before baking the pizzas, start preheating the oven with pizza stones inside at 500 degrees F.

For the Chicken: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil on medium high heat. add chicken pieces. saut until cooked (6 minutes). Chill. Coat chicken with 2 T. barbecue sauce. Set aside in the refrigerator.

For the Pizza: Punch the dough down, and divide into 4 equal portions. Roll out each portion into an 6-8 inch flat circle. Spread 1/4 cup barbecue sauce over the surface of the dough. Distribute 1/2 of the cheese over the sauce. Distribute 1/2 of the chicken over the cheese. Place half of the onion rings over the chicken pieces. Place the pizza in the oven (on top of pizza stones). Bake until crust is crispy and cheese is bubbling (8-10 minutes). Remove pizzas from the oven and sprinkle each with 1/2 of the cilantro.

Calories: 1451 Calories

Quick-and-Easy Pizza Crust

Quick-and-Easy Pizza Crust

2 cups bread flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 package quick-rise yeast
3/4 cup warm water (120 to 130 degrees)
1 T. olive oil
Cooking spray
2 T. cornmeal

Combine first four ingredients in a large bowl; make a well in center of mixture. Combine water and oil; add to flour mixture. Stir until mixture forms a ball. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes). Place the dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 45 minutes or until doubled in bulk. Punch dough down; divide in half. Cover and let dough rest 10 minutes. Working with one portion at a time (cover remaining dough to keep from drying), roll each portion into a 10-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Place dough on two baking sheets, each sprinkled with 1 T. cornmeal.

YIELD: 2 (10-inch) pizza crusts (serving size: 1 crust)

Calories: 603
Fat: 9.7g
Fiber: 1.4g

Pizza Margherita

Pizza Margherita

2 tsp. olive oil
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
2 T. chopped fresh oregano
2 (10-inch) Quick-and-Easy Pizza Crusts
Cooking spray
4 plum tomatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/2 pound)
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Combine first three ingredients in a small bowl; set aside. Combine basil and oregano in a small bowl; set aside. Prepare grill. Place 1 crust on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 3 minutes or until puffy and golden. Turn crust, grill-mark side up; brush with half of oil mixture. Top with half of plum tomatoes, mozzarella, and herb mixture. Cook 4 to 5 minutes or until cheese melts and crust is lightly browned. Repeat with remaining crust and toppings.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1/3 pizza

Calories: 286
Fat: 8.3g
Fiber: 1.8g

California Pizza Kitchen Vegetarian Pizza

California Pizza Kitchen Vegetarian Pizza

Honey-Wheat Dough:
1/3 cup plus 1 T. warm water (105 to 115 degrees)
1 T. honey
3/4 tsp. yeast
2/3 cup bread flour
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 T. olive oil

Sauce:
1 tsp. olive oil
1 T. minced white onion
1 clove garlic, minced I tomato, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 tsp. granulated sugar
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
14 tsp. dried basil
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. dried thyme
dash ground black pepper

Grilled Eggplant:
1/2 eggplant, sliced lengthwise 1/4 inch thick
1 1/2 T. soy sauce
1 T. olive oil
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. cumin

Remaining Toppings:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3/4 cup mushrooms, sliced thin (2 to 3 mushrooms)
1/3 medium onion, sliced into thin rings (about 2/3 cup)
1/3 cup reconstituted sun-dried tomatoes, sliced into strips
1 1/2 cups steamed broccoli florets (bite-size)
1 tsp. minced fresh oregano

Prepare the pizza dough by combining the water with the honey and yeast in a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir until the yeast is dissolved, then let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until, the surface turns foamy (If it doesn’t foam, either the yeast was too old or the water was too hot. Try again.) Sift the flours and salt together in a medium bowl. Make a depression in the flour and pour the olive oil and yeast mixture into it. Use a fork or spoon to stir the liquid, gradually drawing in more flour as you stir; until all the ingredients are combined. At this point you will have to use your hands to blend the dough until it is smooth and to form it into a ball. Knead the dough with the heels of your hands on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes or until the texture of the dough is smooth and elastic. Form the dough back into a ball, coat it lightly with oil, and place it into a clean bowl covered with plastic wrap. Keep the dough in a warm place for about 2 hours to allow the dough to double in size. Punch the dough down and put it back into the covered bowl and back into the refrigerator overnight. Take the dough from the refrigerator 1 to 2 hours before you plan to build the pizza so that the dough can warm up to room temperature.

When you are ready to make the pizza, preheat oven to 500 degrees. Use a pizza stone if you have one. Prepare the sauce by first heating the olive oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan. saut the onion and garlic for I minute in the oil. Add the tomato and saut for an additional minute before adding the remaining sauce ingredients to the pan. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until thicker: Cover the sauce until it is needed. Preheat barbecue grill to high temperature. Combine the soy sauce with I T. olive oil, cayenne pepper; garlic powder; and cumin in a small bowl. Brush the entire surface of the eggplant with the soy sauce mixture. Grill the eggplant slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side, then remove the slices from the heat and set them aside until they are needed. On a lightly floured surface, form the pizza dough into a circle that is approximately 10 inches across. Spread about 1/2 cup of the sauce evenly over the surface of the dough. Arrange the grilled eggplant on the pizza, and then sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the eggplant. Heat a couple cups of water to boiling in the microwave. Add 6 to 8 sun-dried tomato slices to the water and let them sit for about 1/2 hour. Remove and drain the slices on paper towels until you need them. Next sprinkle the mushrooms onto the pizza, followed by the onion slices. Sprinkle the sun-dried tomato slices on the pizza, followed by the broccoli florets. Bake the pizza for 10 to 12 minutes or until the crust is light brown and the cheese begins to bubble. Pop any bubbles in the crust that may form as the pizza bakes. Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle the fresh oregano over the top. Use a pizza wheel to slice the pizza into 6 pieces and serve.

Yield: 1 (10 inch) Pizza, 6 slices
Serving Size: 2 slices

Calories: 421
Fat: 12.7g
Fiber: 3g