Quattro Stagioni Pizza is a traditional Italian favorite, representing the four seasons with distinct toppings in each quadrant. This homemade version features ham, mushrooms, artichokes, and black olives on a crispy, golden crust with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella.
Yield: 2 Pizzas
Prep Time: 3 hours (including dough rising)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 200g white flour
- 7g instant dry yeast
- A pinch of salt
- 140ml warm water
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Extra flour (for kneading)
- Extra olive oil (for greasing the bowl and baking tray)
For the Toppings:
- 200g passata (tomato sauce)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 85g cooked ham, sliced
- 85g mushrooms, sliced
- 6 artichokes in oil, drained and quartered
- 80g sun-dried black olives, sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in warm water and olive oil.
- Stir until a wet dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Lightly dust a clean counter with flour.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Grease a large bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and brush the top with oil.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 25 minutes in a warm place, until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Bases
- Brush two baking trays with olive oil.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide into two balls.
- Roll out each dough ball into a 3mm thick round disc.
- Carefully place each pizza base onto a prepared tray.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven & Cook the Mushrooms
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Sauté the sliced mushrooms in a pan for 2 minutes, then set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread 100g of tomato sauce evenly on one pizza base, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Divide the pizza into four quadrants, adding:
- Ham in one quadrant
- Olives in the second quadrant
- Sautéed mushrooms in the third quadrant
- Artichokes in the fourth quadrant
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Repeat the process for the second pizza.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute before slicing.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy your homemade Quattro Stagioni Pizza while hot and crispy, paired with a fresh salad !
Tips for the Best Pizza
- For extra crispiness, bake on a pizza stone or preheated baking tray.
- Use fresh mozzarella for an authentic taste and better melting.
- Customize the toppings—add artichoke hearts, capers, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Let the dough rise, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before using.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
Reheat in a hot oven (180°C/350°F) for 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Q: Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ham for grilled zucchini or roasted peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
Enjoy your homemade Quattro Stagioni Pizza, a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary tradition! 😊🍕