New York Style Pizza Recipe
New York Style Pizza is a quintessential American dish known for its thin, yet sturdy crust, which strikes the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. Topped with a rich, tangy tomato sauce and a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese, this pizza is often sold by the slice, making it a street food icon of New York City. What sets it apart is its simple, fresh ingredients, quick preparation time, and the ability to customize with various toppings. This healthier rendition not only maintains the classic flavors and textures you love but can also be prepared in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, or any favorite toppings
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, add the activated yeast mixture, and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Rest the Dough: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the dough rests, prepare the sauce:
- Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) after the dough has rested for about 10 minutes. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
Step 4: Shape the Pizza
- Roll out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circular shape about 12 inches in diameter. If you prefer a thicker crust, make it about 10 inches.
- Transfer to a Baking Sheet: If you don’t have a pizza stone, transfer the rolled dough to a lightly greased baking sheet or a pizza pan.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the prepared sauce over the rolled-out dough, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges for the crust.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Add Optional Toppings: If using additional toppings, evenly distribute them over the cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
- Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven (on the pizza stone, if using) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
- Cool Slightly and Cut: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven, and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Cut into wedges.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious New York Style Pizza with a side of simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for a fulfilling meal. Pair it with classic beverages like a chilled lager, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing soda for a complete New York experience at home.
Nutritional Information:
This New York Style Pizza recipe (without additional toppings) offers a balance of nutrition, featuring:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 per slice (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 12-15 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams (from cheese and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams (from whole wheat flour, if used)
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in calcium from the cheese and antioxidants from the tomatoes.
This healthier version also opts for part-skim cheese and homemade sauce, allowing for enjoyable, guilt-free indulgence. It’s relatively low in calories and provides a good amount of carbohydrates and protein, making it a fitting option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Creating a classic New York Style Pizza at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a fresh, flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of New York City dining in under 30 minutes. Play around with your favorite toppings and share this pizza with friends and family for a delightful meal that can easily be the star of any gathering! Enjoy your cooking and your slice of New York!