Salami Pizza Recipe

Salami pizza is a classic and crowd-pleasing combination that delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. Featuring a crispy, golden crust topped with rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and flavorful slices of savory salami, this pizza is a surefire hit for any pizza night. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, salami pizza is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Follow this recipe for a mouth-watering salami pizza that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pizza dough ball (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup tomato pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 15-20 slices of salami
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dough:

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness (about 12-14 inches in diameter). Transfer the rolled dough to a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking.

Assemble the Pizza:

• Brush the edges of the dough lightly with olive oil.
• Spread the tomato pizza sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce.
• Arrange the slices of salami evenly over the cheese.
• Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top of the salami.

Season and Bake:

• Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the pizza.
• Carefully slide the parchment paper with the assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Finish and Serve:

• Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing.
• Slice into portions and serve hot.

Servings

This recipe makes one 12-14 inch pizza, which can be sliced into approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the size of the slices. Enjoy your delicious and savory salami pizza!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tools Needed

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Parchment paper
• Sauce brush or spoon

Tips for Preparing

1. Preheat the Right Way: Preheat the oven with your pizza stone inside for at least 30 minutes at 475°F (245°C). This ensures a crispy crust.
2. Homemade Dough: If time allows, make your own pizza dough a day in advance and let it rest. This process develops the flavor and texture of your crust.
3. Thinly Sliced Salami: Ensure your salami is thinly sliced. This helps it cook evenly and crisps nicely on the pizza.
4. Even Toppings: Distribute the salami and other toppings evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful.
5. Cheese Placement: Place the cheese beneath the toppings to prevent it from burning, and use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for optimal flavor.
6. Monitor Baking: Keep a close watch as your pizza bakes; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
7. Rest After Baking: Allow the pizza to rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Skill Level

Intermediate – Requires some experience with dough preparation and handling.

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

• Cutting: Use a high-quality pizza cutter for clean slices.
• Serving Plate: Serve on a wooden pizza peel or a large cutting board for a rustic presentation.
• Accompaniments: Serve with freshly grated Parmesan, chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil on the side for added flavor options.
• Garnish: Fresh arugula tossed in a bit of olive oil and lemon juice can be added on top for a fresh bite.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a craft beer for an enhanced dining experience.

Storage Conditions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked pizza in individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through, approximately 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it will make the crust soggy.

Health Benefits

• Protein: Provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Calcium: The cheese contributes to your daily calcium intake, essential for bone health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Contains vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function.
• Fiber: Whole grain crust (if used) adds fiber, aiding in digestion.
• Energy: The balance of protein, fat, and carbs makes it a good option for a post-workout meal to replenish energy.

Recommendations for Vegans

• Vegan Cheese: Substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives.
• Plant-Based Salami: Use plant-based salami or another plant-based meat substitute.
• Dough: Ensure the pizza dough used is vegan-friendly by using olive oil instead of animal fats.

Similar Recipes

1. Margherita Pizza: A classic, simple pizza with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.
2. Pepperoni Pizza: Swap salami for pepperoni for another crowd-pleasing option.
3. Vegetarian Pizza: A medley of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and olives.
4. Four Cheese Pizza: A blend of mozzarella, fontina, parmesan, and gorgonzola for a rich, cheesy experience.
5. BBQ Chicken Pizza: Tender chicken pieces, BBQ sauce, red onions, and cilantro for a tangy twist.