Pizza with Pesto, Arugula, and Prosciutto

I love most kinds of pizza, but my favorite will always be the NY slice. I’m particular about the slice too– I prefer a slice with a crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and not an excessive amount of cheese. The crispy crust is key, and I usually prefer when I get the reheat– they put the slice from the pie back in the oven and the edges get the nice crispy cheese and the crust is perfect. Oh, and it has to be a plain cheese slice. No bbq chicken or pasta on my pizza.

I also like homemade pizza, although it’s definitely a different animal. I prefer them like this, with a crispy flatbread-like crust. You can always add your favorite toppings and people can personalize their own at a party. I’m not a big fan of the way most people do prosciutto on pizza. It turns that unappealing gray color and the whole slice comes off when you try to take a bite. I do it a little differently. I crisp up the prosciutto in the oven on a sheet pan and then crumble it over the cooked pizza. Perfect!

Pizza with Pesto, Arugula, and Prosciutto

1 1/2 teaspoons yeast

3 1/2 cups flour plus extra for dusting

2 tablespoons salt

1 1/2 cups warm water

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 tablespoons pesto

1/2 cup arugula

parmesan or pecorino

3 pieces of prosciutto, crisped in a 375 degree oven for 15 minutes

Proof the yeast with the warm water and honey in a bowl (not metallic) for 5 minutes until it starts to foam up. Add the salt, flour, and olive oil and mix together. Dump out on a floured surface and knead together for 5-10 minutes. You may need to add more flour if it feels too wet. Let it rest in an oiled bowl under a damp kitchen towel for 1 1/2 hours. Turn out onto a floured surface and cut into quarters. Roll into balls and let sit for another 15 minutes. Roll out and top with your toppings.

Preheat a pizza stone (or sheet tray) in an oven at 450 degrees for an hour. Once you’re ready to go, it will happen fast. Move the rolled out dough onto the stone carefully, it will immediately start to bubble and cook. Work quickly and spread the pesto on the dough and then some shavings of cheese.

Pop back in the oven for 10 minutes, until it starts to brown on the edges. Take it out and let cool for a couple minutes. Sprinkle the arugula and prosciutto pieces over the top. Cut and serve!