Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza

Pizza is one of those universally loved dishes that can be topped with almost anything, making it a great canvas for flavors and textures. Today, we’re diving into a delightful combination that elevates the classic pizza experience: Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza. This recipe marries the earthy taste of artichokes, the briny punch of olives, and the creamy richness of goat cheese, all atop a homemade crust that’s both crispy and chewy. Ready to impress your family or friends? Let’s get started!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. First, it’s a unique flavor combination that stands out from the typical pepperoni or veggie pizzas, offering a gourmet touch that’s sure to impress. Second, the ingredients are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making this pizza a wholesome option. Finally, the satisfaction of creating a homemade pizza from scratch is unparalleled. You control the ingredients, and the result is a fresh, warm pizza that fills the home with irresistible aromas.

What You’ll Need

• For the Dough:
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast (from 1 envelope)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups (about) unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• For the Topping:
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) water-packed artichoke hearts, drained
• 3 slices oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 2-1/2 ounces soft goat cheese, sliced or crumbled
• 10 kalamata olives, pitted and halved (about 1/4 cup)

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing Bowl: For mixing the dough ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you’re using the right quantities.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
• Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: For baking your pizza to perfection.
• Oven: A reliable oven is essential for achieving that crispy crust.

Cook Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Add olive oil, salt, flour, fennel seeds, and thyme to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

Step 6: Prepare the Toppings

While the dough is rising, prepare your toppings. Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and rosemary, sautéing until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. On a floured surface, roll it out to your desired thickness—about 12 inches in diameter works well.

Step 8: Assemble the Pizza

Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or heated pizza stone. Brush the garlic and rosemary oil over the surface. Evenly distribute the artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, and kalamata olives on top.

Step 9: Bake the Pizza

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice it up and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Customize for Your Needs

• Swap goat cheese for feta or mozzarella if you prefer a different cheese flavor.
• Add more veggies, such as spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the amount of olives based on your taste preference; if you love them, add more!
• For a spicy kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to a dense crust. Be patient!
• Overloading the pizza with toppings can result in a soggy crust. Stick to moderate amounts.
• Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking; ensure it’s hot before baking.
• Using cold ingredients can affect the dough’s rise and texture; make sure everything is at room temperature.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• You can freeze the pizza by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag, where it will last for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver. Just follow the package instructions for rolling and baking.

What other toppings pair well with this pizza?

Consider adding arugula after baking for a peppery crunch, or drizzle balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate it after kneading and bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

Is this pizza suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza is entirely vegetarian and packed with flavorful ingredients!

Explore More

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for sweet treats
• Pinch of Yum for delicious recipes
• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based meals

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve crafted your own Artichoke Heart, Olive, and Goat Cheese Pizza, it’s time to gather your loved ones and dig in! This pizza not only satisfies hunger but also serves as a conversation starter, with its unique combination of flavors. Pair it with a fresh salad or a glass of your favorite beverage, and you have a meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy every bite of your homemade masterpiece!