Name: Green Olive and Feta Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ½ recipe Easy Same-Day Pizza Dough (Link: https://whipandwander.com/same-day-pizza-dough/); 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz tomato sauce (Link: https://amzn.to/2T19tZT); ¼ tsp garlic powder (Can omit for garlic-infused olive oil use for intolerance.); ¼ tsp Kosher salt (Link: https://amzn.to/37dWkEZ); 6 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 oz parmesan cheese, shredded; 100 g Castelvetrano olives, crushed (About 1 cup, alternative olives can be used.); 4 oz feta cheese block in brine (Cut into small cubes.); ½ tsp red pepper flakes (To taste.)

Introduction to Green Olive and Feta Pizza

There’s nothing quite like a homemade pizza to bring some joy to your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds. If you’ve never tried making your own pie, now is the perfect time to start! Making a green olive and feta pizza at home allows you to customize flavors to your liking, ensuring you get exactly what you crave. Plus, it's a fun activity you can share with friends or family.

Why You Should Try Making Homemade Pizza

When you opt for homemade pizza, you’re stepping into a world of creativity and flavor. Not only can you choose fresh ingredients, but you can also experiment with various toppings to cater to your personal tastes. Did you know that making pizza at home can be healthier too? You can control the amount of cheese and choose whole grain crust options, making it a wholesome alternative to takeout.

Additionally, the process of kneading dough and selecting your favorite toppings can be incredibly rewarding. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. So gather your loved ones and try your hand at crafting a green olive and feta pizza! You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to unwind after a long day. For tips on making your own dough, check out this easy pizza dough recipe.

Ingredients for Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Fresh Dough Ingredients

The foundation of a delicious green olive and feta pizza begins with a quality dough. For this recipe, you'll need the following ingredients for the fresh dough:

½ recipe of Easy Same-Day Pizza Dough
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt

This simple mix creates an irresistibly chewy crust that balances beautifully with the savory toppings. You can easily adjust the garlic powder to suit your taste, or opt for garlic-infused olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.

Toppings Essentials

Now, for the toppings that bring this green olive and feta pizza to life! Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz tomato sauce
6 oz (about ¾ cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 oz (about ⅓ cup) parmesan cheese, shredded
100 g (about 1 cup) Castelvetrano olives, crushed (Cerignola or Manzanilla work as alternatives)
4 oz (about 1 cup) feta cheese block in brine, cut into small cubes
Red pepper flakes (to your desired heat level)

This combination results in a pizza full of vibrant flavors with a delightful salty contrast from the olives and feta. Happy cooking!

Preparing Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Creating a delectable green olive and feta pizza is an enjoyable endeavor that brings your kitchen to life with fresh flavors. Follow these steps for pizza perfection!

Preheat your oven

Start by setting your oven to a blistering 500 degrees F (or 260 degrees C). This high temperature is essential for that perfect, crispy crust that every pizza lover craves. While your oven is heating up, grab a baker’s half sheet and set it aside—this is where your pizza will bake to golden perfection.

Shape the pizza dough

Next, it’s time to shape your dough. If you’re aiming for a classic, thicker crust, hand-stretching is the way to go. Here’s how:

Prepare your hands: Rub a small amount of olive oil into your hands to make handling the dough easier and prevent sticking.
Flatten to a disk: Press the dough with the palm of your hand into a round disk.
Gently stretch: Use your fingertips to press down and gradually stretch the dough outward. If it starts to resist, allow it to rest for a minute or two before continuing.

Alternatively, if you prefer an even thickness, you can use a rolling pin. Just place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to keep it from sticking. Once it's shaped, carefully transfer it onto your baking sheet.

Assemble the pizza

Now comes the fun part: assembling your green olive and feta pizza! Follow these easy steps:

Brush the shaped dough with olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sogginess.
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a little crust around the edges.
Sprinkle garlic powder and Kosher salt for a flavor boost.
Generously top with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese—don’t be shy!
Next, add the crushed Castelvetrano olives and cubed feta cheese. Feel free to sprinkle red pepper flakes to raise the heat to your liking.

Bake to perfection

Carefully slide your assembled pizza into the preheated oven on the baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The aroma of the bubbling olives and feta will have your mouth watering in no time!

Enjoy your homemade pizza

Once your green olive and feta pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a minute before cutting. Slice it up, serve, and watch as your friends and family marvel at your pizza-making skills. Pair it with a refreshing drink, like sparkling water with lemon, to cleanse your palate and enhance the vibrant flavors.

Enjoy this culinary journey and bask in the glory of your homemade pizza masterpiece! If you’re ever in need of more inspiration, check out additional recipes on Whip & Wander.

Now, go ahead and impress everyone with your new favorite pizza recipe!

Variations on Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Mediterranean-Style Pizzas

Elevate your green olive and feta pizza with a Mediterranean twist! Consider adding fresh ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or roasted red peppers. Each of these not only complements the olives and feta beautifully but also brings a burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. For an extra kick, sprinkle on some za'atar or oregano right before baking.

Vegan-Friendly Options

If you're looking to make a vegan version of your beloved green olive and feta pizza, swap the cheese for a nut-based alternative or a homemade cashew ricotta. You won't miss the dairy at all! To add richness, try drizzling with balsamic reduction after baking. This small change not only caters to plant-based diets but also brings a lovely depth to your pizza.

For more ideas on customizing your pizza, check out this comprehensive guide to pizza toppings.

Cooking Tips for Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Tips for Perfecting the Crust

Achieving a perfect crust for your green olive and feta pizza can elevate your dish to the next level. Start by preheating your oven to its highest temperature (500°F/260°C), ensuring a crisp exterior. If you prefer a chewy crust, let your dough rest briefly before stretching it out to allow the gluten to relax. Don’t hesitate to use a bit of olive oil on your hands or rolling pin to prevent sticking. For added flavor, consider brushing the crust with a garlic-infused olive oil before baking.

Suggestions for Cheese Alternatives

While feta cheese shines in this recipe, you can mix things up with other cheeses! Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist or ricotta for a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider crumbled tofu infused with your favorite herbs. Adjusting the cheese not only changes the flavor profile but can also cater to dietary preferences—making it versatile for gatherings with friends!

Serving suggestions for Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Pairing with salads

To complement your green olive and feta pizza, consider serving a fresh, vibrant salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil can balance the rich flavors of the pizza beautifully. You might also try a Mediterranean chickpea salad, which brings in additional textures and flavors, creating a hearty yet refreshing side.

Best dips and sides to enhance flavors

Pair your pizza with dips like tzatziki or a tangy hummus to elevate the experience. These creamy dips not only add depth to the meal but also offer a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the red pepper flakes. For a crunchy addition, serve with roasted red peppers or a side of marinated artichokes, adding even more Mediterranean flair to your meal.

Time details for Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Preparation time
Get your kitchen ready for some deliciousness! You’ll want to set aside about 15 minutes for prep work, which includes gathering ingredients and shaping the dough.

Cooking time
Once you're all prepped, the baking will only take about 10-12 minutes in your preheated oven.

Total time
In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delightful green olive and feta pizza ready to impress your taste buds and those of your friends!

Feel free to take a look at our full recipe for more tips on creating the perfect base and exploring delicious topping combinations. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information for Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Serving Size and Calorie Count

Each serving of the green olive and feta pizza is a satisfying quarter of the pie, containing approximately 522 calories. This makes it a hearty meal choice without going overboard.

Key Nutritional Highlights

This delicious pizza packs a punch with its nutritional profile:

Protein: 27 g
Fat: 22 g (including 8 g saturated fat)
Sodium: 1355 mg
Carbohydrates: 54 g, offering 2 g of fiber
Sugar: 5 g
Cholesterol: 34 mg

With a great balance of flavors and nutrients, this green olive and feta pizza is an excellent option for a satisfying dinner. For more insights into healthy eating, check out Healthline for expert advice.

FAQs about Green Olive and Feta Pizza

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough can save you time in the kitchen, making this green olive and feta pizza even more convenient. Look for fresh options in the refrigerated section or even frozen versions for a quick meal solution.

What other toppings pair well with feta?

Feta cheese has a unique flavor that complements various ingredients. Consider adding spinach for a fresh touch, sun-dried tomatoes for richness, or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair. You might also enjoy the addition of grilled chicken or roasted red peppers if you're looking for a protein-packed option.

How do I store leftover pizza?

To keep your green olive and feta pizza fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—ideally, it should last up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy some, just reheat in the oven for that crispy crust!

Conclusion on Green Olive and Feta Pizza

In summary, the green olive and feta pizza is not just a delightful dish but a culinary adventure that brings flavors to your table. With fresh ingredients and a simple preparation process, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Transform your pizza nights with this savory option!

For more pizza inspiration, check out our guide on How to Create the Perfect Pizza Toppings.