Name: Mediterranean Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1 clove garlic (finely minced); 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup green olives; 1/2 cup black olives; 1/2 cup artichoke hearts; 1 large tomato (diced); 2 green onions sliced

When it comes to pizza, there’s an entire world of flavors waiting to be explored beyond the typical pepperoni and cheese. Enter Mediterranean Pizza—a vibrant, flavor-packed option that brings the freshness of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With a crisp crust topped with a delightful mix of olives, artichoke hearts, and gooey mozzarella, this pizza is a feast for the senses. Plus, you can easily use half of the Fail-Proof Pizza Dough recipe to whip up some cheesy garlic bread for a truly indulgent meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your rotation!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Mediterranean Pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of savory ingredients and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. The benefit of this recipe is twofold: you can enjoy a scrumptious pizza while also having cheesy garlic bread as a side. The rich flavors from the toppings, paired with a crispy crust, create a satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Elevate your pizza night with this Mediterranean twist, and you’ll never look back!

Ingredient Notes

2 tablespoons salted butter: This adds richness and helps create the perfect garlic bread.
1 clove garlic, finely minced: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile, making every bite aromatic and delicious.
2 cups grated mozzarella cheese: The key to a melty, gooey pizza; feel free to mix in some feta for an extra tang.
1/2 cup green olives: I used Lindsays, which provide a briny punch and beautiful color.
1/2 cup black olives: Another layer of flavor; they complement the green olives perfectly.
1/2 cup artichoke hearts: Tender and slightly nutty, they bring a unique texture and taste.
1 large tomato, diced: Fresh tomatoes add acidity and sweetness to balance the richness.
2 green onions, sliced: These provide a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the pizza.

Appliances & Accessories

Oven: Preheat it to ensure your pizza crust gets that perfect crisp.
Pizza stone or baking sheet: A stone is ideal for even heat distribution, but a baking sheet works too.
Rolling pin: For rolling out your pizza dough to the desired thickness.
Large mixing bowl: Essential for mixing your dough and ingredients.

How to Prepare Mediterranean Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by following your favorite Fail-Proof Pizza Dough recipe, using half for this Mediterranean Pizza. Once your dough is mixed and risen, it’s ready to roll out.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a hot cooking environment for that perfect crust.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, use your rolling pin to roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Aim for about 12 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

Transfer the rolled-out dough to your prepared pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the surface with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly across the dough.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Layer the green olives, black olives, artichoke hearts, diced tomato, and sliced green onions over the cheese. Feel free to get creative here—add more or less of your favorite toppings!

Step 7: Bake

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the Mediterranean Pizza from the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes, slice it up, and serve hot. Don’t forget to enjoy the cheesy garlic bread you made with the other half of the dough!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Spring: Add fresh arugula or spinach after baking for a pop of color and freshness.
Summer: Include sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil for a burst of summer flavor.
Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or pumpkin for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Add caramelized onions and goat cheese for a cozy, comforting pizza.

Testing Timeline

Prep Time: 20 minutes (for dough and toppings)
Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Refrigerator: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of cheese for Mediterranean Pizza?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with feta, goat cheese, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

No worries! A baking sheet works perfectly fine. Just make sure to preheat it along with your oven to get a nice crust.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

What other toppings can I add to Mediterranean Pizza?

The possibilities are endless! Consider adding roasted red peppers, fresh herbs like oregano or thyme, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet finish.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients and get ready to make a Mediterranean Pizza that will impress your family and friends. With its fresh toppings and delectable flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So roll up your sleeves, turn on your oven, and embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean right from your kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant, flavorful pizza, and don’t forget to share that cheesy garlic bread goodness!