Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for any occasion. This white pizza features a golden crust topped with creamy mozzarella, luscious ricotta, and savory prosciutto, all enhanced by a drizzle of hot honey. In just 25 minutes, you can create a gourmet dish that impresses family and friends alike. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This pizza can be made in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy ricotta, salty prosciutto, and spicy honey creates a unique flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as an appetizer, main course, or party food.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common ingredients found in most kitchens.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the flavors to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pizza pan or baking sheet
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Oven mitts
• Mixing bowl (for any optional toppings)

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza pan or baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even cooking.
• Rolling pin: Helps stretch the dough evenly for a perfectly shaped pizza crust.

Ingredients

For the Dough and Base

• 1 tbsp all purpose flour for dusting
• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil

For the Toppings

• 8 oz mozzarella cheese (Fior di Latte (regular), buffalo, or shredded)
• ½ cup ricotta
• 2 oz prosciutto
• 1 cup arugula
• 2 tbsp hot honey

How to Make Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

Step 1: Let Dough Temper

Let the dough sit at room temperature on a lightly floured work surface for about 30 minutes. This helps it become easier to stretch.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Place the oven rack in the middle tier and preheat your oven to 475°F. A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy crust.

Step 3: Prepare Pizza

Stretch the dough using your hands or a rolling pin to form either a 12-inch circle or a 9×13 rectangle. Lightly oil your pizza pan or baking sheet before placing the dough on it. Top with mozzarella cheese and dollops of ricotta evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Bake Pizza

Bake your pizza on the middle rack for about 10-12 minutes. Look for golden cheese and lightly browned crust edges; this indicates that it’s done. The cheese should be bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and top with slices of prosciutto and fresh arugula. Cut into 8 slices and drizzle with hot honey before serving immediately. Enjoy your homemade Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza!

How to Serve Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

Serving Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza can elevate your dining experience. This delightful dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Pair with a Salad

• Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan for a light, peppery side.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

Add a Dip

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can add richness and flavor perfect for dipping crusts.
• Hot Honey Drizzle: Serve extra hot honey on the side for those who love an extra kick of sweetness.

Serve with Beverages

• White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the pizza’s creaminess beautifully.
• Craft Beer: A light lager or pale ale can balance the saltiness of prosciutto.

Include Desserts

• Lemon Sorbet: This cool dessert refreshes the palate after the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Chocolate Mousse: A small portion of chocolate mousse offers a decadent end to your meal.

How to Perfect Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

Creating the perfect Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pizza turns out just right.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella and artisanal prosciutto for superior flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven Well: Ensure your oven reaches 475°F before baking for a crispy crust.
• Stretch Dough Evenly: Work dough gently to avoid tearing, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Watch Cheese Carefully: Bake until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden but not burnt.
• Add Toppings After Baking: For fresh toppings like arugula and prosciutto, add them after baking to maintain their texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add different toppings or spices according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds freshness.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction offers a crunchy contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with herbs provide warmth and depth of flavor.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for an irresistible dipper.
5. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables makes a filling and colorful side dish.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and breadcrumbs create savory bites that complement the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that many home cooks encounter. Here are some tips to ensure your pizza turns out perfectly.

• Not letting the dough rest – Many skip this step, but allowing the dough to temper at room temperature for 30 minutes helps it stretch easily.
• Overloading with toppings – It’s tempting to add too many ingredients, but this can make your pizza soggy. Stick to the key toppings for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping preheating the oven – Failing to preheat means your pizza will cook unevenly. Always preheat your oven to 475°F before baking.
• Using cold cheese – Cold cheese from the fridge doesn’t melt well. Let mozzarella and ricotta sit at room temperature before adding them to your pizza.
• Not monitoring baking time – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza in an airtight container.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, but note this may make the crust soft.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza.

What is Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza?

Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza is a delicious white pizza topped with creamy ricotta, savory prosciutto, and fresh arugula. The combination creates a sweet and salty flavor profile.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for a unique twist.

How do I make the crust crispy?

To achieve a crispy crust, ensure your oven is fully preheated and use a pizza stone if possible. This helps distribute heat evenly.

Can I customize the toppings?

Yes! Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza is versatile. You can add figs, pears, or even different herbs based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it or make the pizza ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or preparing it as part of meal prep, this recipe allows you plenty of room for customization. Try adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting toppings according to your taste!