California Pizza Recipe
California pizza is known for its unique blend of fresh, vibrant toppings and thin, crispy crusts. This recipe brings the essence of California right to your kitchen. With a mix of bold flavors and creative combinations, it’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until you have a smooth dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Pro Tip: For a crispier crust, let the dough rest in the refrigerator overnight before using.
2. Make the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Roll out the dough into a thin circle or rectangle. Place it on parchment paper for easy transfer.
- Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and goat cheese over the sauce.
- Arrange red onion slices and cherry tomatoes on top.
Pro Tip: Don’t overload your pizza with toppings; a lighter layer ensures the crust cooks evenly.
5. Bake the Pizza
- Slide the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Final Touches
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2 minutes.
- Top with fresh arugula, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Add fresh basil if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your California pizza with a side of mixed greens or a light pasta salad. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling lemonade for the perfect meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese is a game-changer.
- Arugula adds a peppery kick, while balsamic glaze ties the flavors together beautifully.
- It’s versatile! Feel free to customize toppings to suit your taste.
Enjoy your homemade California pizza—bursting with fresh flavors and the spirit of the Golden State!
