Spicy Mediterranean Summer Pizza

Spicy Mediterranean Summer Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 3/4 cup warm water

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives

• 1/4 cup sliced red onion

• 1/4 cup sliced roasted red peppers

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh arugula or baby spinach (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Dough: a. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until foamy. b. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. c. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. d. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or as per your pizza stone or oven manufacturer's instructions.

• Shape and Prepare the Pizza: a. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference. b. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Add the Toppings: a. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. b. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese over the sauce. c. Distribute the sliced olives, red onion, and roasted red peppers over the cheese. d. Sprinkle the fresh oregano, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper over the toppings. e. Drizzle olive oil over the entire pizza.

• Bake: Slide the pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

• Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Just before serving, scatter fresh arugula or baby spinach over the top for a burst of freshness.

• Enjoy: Serve your Spicy Mediterranean Summer Pizza slices as a delightful, flavorful treat perfect for enjoying during hot summer days.

Note: Feel free to customize the ingredients and spice levels to your taste. You can also add grilled chicken, artichoke hearts, or other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients for variation.