There’s something quietly satisfying about a pizza without the usual tomato sauce—a canvas of soft, chewy dough kissed by olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs. I remember one evening when I just wanted something warm and uncomplicated after a long day. The scent of garlic mingling with rosemary filled the kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. As the mozzarella melted into pockets of creamy bliss, I realized this simple Pizza Bianca was exactly the kind of comfort food I craved. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a small celebration of flavors that felt both familiar and a little special.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Creamy mozzarella and garlic create a rich, savory flavor without overwhelming your palate.
– The fresh rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note that elevates every bite.
– Olive oil keeps the crust tender yet crispy, making each slice a delight.
– Quick to prepare, it fits perfectly into busy weeknight dinners.
– No tomato sauce means it’s a lighter alternative to traditional pizzas but still deeply satisfying.
If you’ve ever hesitated about trying a pizza without sauce, this one might just change your mind. It’s a gentle introduction to a new way of enjoying a classic favorite, showing how simplicity can be incredibly delicious.
PrintPizza Bianca (White Pizza)
Pizza Bianca, or White Pizza, is a delicious Italian flatbread topped with olive oil, garlic, fresh rosemary, and creamy mozzarella cheese. This simple yet flavorful pizza is perfect for those who prefer a cheese-forward pizza without tomato sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for finishing)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and fine sea salt.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.
Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.
Drizzle the dough evenly with extra virgin olive oil.
Distribute the thinly sliced garlic evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary leaves over the top.
Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella evenly across the pizza.
Season with freshly ground black pepper.
Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top.
Let the pizza rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. The dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated, just bring it to room temperature before shaping.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
A: Dried rosemary works too, just use a bit less to avoid overpowering the flavors.
Q: Can I add other toppings?
A: Sure! This pizza is versatile. Try mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth.
Q: How do I keep the crust crispy when reheating?
A: Warm your oven to 375°F and reheat the slices on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes.
Ready to turn on the oven and fill your kitchen with the simple, inviting aroma of Pizza Bianca? It’s a small ritual that makes any day feel a little more special.