A Delicious Tribute to the Classic Slice...
Hello, Good Thyme Gal readers! Today, we’re diving into a delicious celebration that’s sure to make your taste buds dance with joy—National Cheese Pizza Day! Whether you’re a devoted pizza aficionado or just love a good slice now and then, this day is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the most beloved comfort foods out there: cheese pizza. From crispy crusts to gooey cheese and savory sauce, cheese pizza has a way of bringing people together and making any day a little bit better.
Why Cheese Pizza Is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Cheese pizza is more than just a simple meal; it’s a universal comfort food that has won hearts and stomachs around the world. With its origins rooted in Italian cuisine, pizza has evolved into a global phenomenon, but the classic cheese pizza remains a favorite. Its appeal lies in its simplicity—just a perfect blend of a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese, creating a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
One of the best things about cheese pizza is its versatility. While it’s delicious on its own, it also serves as a fantastic base for various toppings, allowing you to get creative with your culinary experiments. But today, let’s celebrate the classic version that started it all and appreciate its timeless appeal.
Why We Celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day
National Cheese Pizza Day is more than just an excuse to enjoy a slice (or two!). It’s a day to honor the deliciousness of this iconic dish and to share the joy of pizza-making with friends and family. It’s a reminder of how something so simple can bring so much happiness and create memorable moments.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to experiment with your own homemade pizza recipes and discover what makes your perfect cheese pizza.
National Cheese Pizza Day is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in one of life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re making it from scratch or ordering from your favorite pizzeria, cheese pizza has a way of making everything a little better. So, embrace the joy of pizza-making, gather your loved ones, and celebrate this day with a delicious, cheesy slice of heaven.
A Perfect Cheese Pizza Recipe
To help you celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day, we’re sharing a tried-and-true recipe for a Classic Cheese Pizza that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or a home cook looking to try your hand at pizza-making, this recipe is both delicious and approachable.
Ingredients
For the Dough
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy. In a large bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it becomes smooth and elastic. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.
2. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, then let it cool.
4. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two portions (for two pizzas) or keep it whole for one large pizza. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your desired shape and thickness.
6. Place the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, followed by grated Parmesan.
7. Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone, if using) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Happy National Cheese Pizza Day, and happy cooking!
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