Linda CainWhen enjoying Grandma Sicilian pizza, it’s important to pair it with sides that enhance its bold flavors without overwhelming them.
A fresh garden salad is a perfect choice, with a simple mix of greens, olives, and a light vinaigrette that adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pizza. Tossing in a few nuts adds a nice crunch and a bit of texture.
Roasted vegetables, like seasonal mixed veggies tossed with herbs, bring a savory depth and a touch of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pizza’s flavors. Garlic bread is another classic pairing—its warm, buttery goodness and comforting aroma are the perfect sidekick to the cheesy, saucy pizza.
Lastly, an antipasto platter with marinated olives, artichokes, and cured meats serves as a great prelude to the meal, offering a variety of textures and bold flavors that complement the pizza beautifully.
Together, these sides create a well-rounded, flavorful meal that lets the pizza take center stage while enhancing the overall dining experience.
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When I think of the comfort foods that bring families together, Grandma Sicilian Pizza takes center stage. This pizza isn’t a one-size-fits-all creation; it’s a tradition steeped in love, family gatherings, and home-cooked goodness.
The thick, crispy crust, combined with fresh toppings, provides a unique, satisfying experience.
Picture this. You’ve just rolled out of bed on a lazy Saturday morning. Your kids are demanding breakfast while plotting how to spend the day. You feel a tinge of nostalgia for those Sunday family dinners. You want to create something special but don’t have all day to make it. Enter Grandma Sicilian Pizza.
Let’s explore what makes this dish beloved, investigate the ingredients, and learn how to make it right in your kitchen.
What is Grandma Sicilian Pizza?
Grandma Sicilian Pizza is a type of pizza that originated in New York, infused with the Italian roots of its creators. Unlike the traditional round pizza, Grandma pizza is made in a rectangular pan, with a thicker crust that strikes a balance between crispy and fluffy.
The magic lies in the careful layering of flavors. A tangy tomato base, creamy fresh mozzarella, and hints of garlic come together to create a bite that dances on the tongue. The recipe is simple, yet the layers of flavor are anything but basic.
This pizza is meant to be shared, passed around the table as family and friends gather. It’s a canvas for toppings and flavors that reflect your personal touch.
Why You’ll Love This Grandma Sicilian Pizza?
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for Grandma Sicilian Pizza. Let me paint a picture for you:
Heartwarming Tradition
In my home, pizza nights were sacred. We often crowded around the kitchen on a Friday evening, preparing the dough together.
The laughter echoed, flour dusted our clothes, and the oven hummed in anticipation. This pizza evokes a sense of nostalgia, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Texture Play
The crust of Grandma Sicilian Pizza is an absolute game-changer. The bottom is baked to perfection, achieving that sought-after crunch. The interior remains soft and airy, providing a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds engaged.
Flavor Explosion
Here’s where it truly shines: the toppings. Imagine hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes, their juicy essence seeping into the crust. Topped with decadent, melted mozzarella and finished off with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze—the flavors will elevate your experience to new heights.
Versatility
What makes this pizza even better? Its versatility. You can personalize it with various toppings: veggies, meats, or even experimental ingredients. Each bite reflects your imagination and preferences.
Quick Preparation
With a bit of planning, you can whip it up in no time. The dough can even be made ahead and stored, allowing for an easy pizza night whenever the craving strikes.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Grandma Sicilian Pizza
Getting the right ingredients boils down to quality. Here’s a list to gather for your pizza adventure:
For the dough
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 9 ounces chilled water
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3 1/4 cups high-gluten flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt
For the Grandma pizza
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 12-16 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 28-ounce can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand and thoroughly drained
- 1 ~24-ounce dough ball from above
- 3/4 cup olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Herbes de Provence
- 3 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze
Now that you have the ingredients, let’s bring it to life!
Directions
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled water, honey, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is your yeast activating, which means it’s ready to work its magic!
In another bowl, mix the high-gluten flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture into the flour. Stir until a dough forms. You can use your hands for a more personal touch.
Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is the part where you really feel like a chef.
Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. A hot surface helps achieve that crispy crust we want.
Step 3: Prepare the Toppings
While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare your toppings. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing them until fragrant. This takes about 2 minutes—don’t let it brown!
In a bowl, roughly crush the drained San Marzano tomatoes. Mix in a teaspoon of salt and the dried oregano.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently press it down to expel the air, then stretch it into a rectangle, about 12 x 16 inches. Transfer this dough into a greased pan, ensuring it fits snugly.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Now for the magic! Spread the crushed tomato mixture over the dough, leaving a slight border. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top, then drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle the sautéed garlic and pepper flakes uniformly over the pizza. Finish with a dust of Parmigiano-Reggiano for that extra flavor boost.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Slide the pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza. This is the final flourish that takes it from good to WOW. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
Here are some tips to make your pizza perfect:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better the outcome. Look for fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.
- Don’t Rush the Dough: Allow it to rise properly. Patience will give you a crust that is light and fluffy.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Your favorite meats, veggies, or even fruits can bring new life to your pizza.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: If your pizza isn’t browning, your oven might not be hot enough. A pizza stone can help maintain high heat.
- Let Residual Heat Do Its Job: After baking, let the pizza rest. This helps the cheese set, making slicing easier.
Storage Tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your Grandma Sicilian Pizza, you’ll want to store leftovers correctly. Here’s how:
- Cool Completely: Allow the pizza to cool completely at room temperature.
- Wrap It Up: Place slices in an airtight container or wrap them in foil to keep them fresh.
- Fridge Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Grandma sicilian pizza recipe nutrition facts
Serving Suggestions
Here are some fantastic ways to serve your Grandma Sicilian Pizza:
- Enjoy with a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Pair with Cold Beverages: Cold drinks, like iced tea or soda, can balance the warm, cheesy delight of pizza.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil or arugula can add a fresh touch before serving.
- Make Mini Pizzas: Slice leftover dough into smaller portions for individual pizzas. Kids adore them!
- Use as a Base for Breakfast: Top leftover pizza with a fried egg, and you have a breakfast for champions.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Grandma Sicilian Pizza?
For those times when you want a twist on the classic, here are a few substitutes to consider:
- Cauliflower Crust: For a gluten-free or lighter option, use a cauliflower crust for a healthy alternative. You can find pre-made versions that work well.
- Zucchini Slices: Instead of bread, layer sliced zucchini for a low-carb pizza experience.
- Store-Bought Dough: If you’re short on time, high-quality store-bought pizza dough is a lifesaver.
- Different Cheeses: Try alternatives like provolone or goat cheese for varied flavors.
- Alternative Sauces: Replace tomato sauce with pesto or white sauce for a different taste explosion.
Grandma Sicilian Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled water, honey, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is your yeast activating, which means it’s ready to work its magic!
- In another bowl, mix the high-gluten flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture into the flour. Stir until a dough forms. You can use your hands for a more personal touch.
- Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is the part where you really feel like a chef.
- Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. A hot surface helps achieve that crispy crust we want.
- While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare your toppings. In a pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing them until fragrant. This takes about 2 minutes—don’t let it brown!
- In a bowl, roughly crush the drained San Marzano tomatoes. Mix in a teaspoon of salt and the dried oregano.
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently press it down to expel the air, then stretch it into a rectangle, about 12 x 16 inches. Transfer this dough into a greased pan, ensuring it fits snugly.
- Now for the magic! Spread the crushed tomato mixture over the dough, leaving a slight border. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle the sautéed garlic and pepper flakes uniformly over the pizza. Finish with a dust of Parmigiano-Reggiano for that extra flavor boost.
- Slide the pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza. This is the final flourish that takes it from good to WOW. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better the outcome. Look for fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.
- Don’t Rush the Dough: Allow it to rise properly. Patience will give you a crust that is light and fluffy.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Your favorite meats, veggies, or even fruits can bring new life to your pizza.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: If your pizza isn’t browning, your oven might not be hot enough. A pizza stone can help maintain high heat.
- Let Residual Heat Do Its Job: After baking, let the pizza rest. This helps the cheese set, making slicing easier.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping.
2. Can I freeze Grandma Sicilian Pizza?
Yes! After baking, let the pizza cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or freeze it in an airtight container. It will last up to two months in the freezer.
3. Is Grandma Sicilian Pizza suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This pizza can be adjusted to fit a vegetarian diet. Just skip the meat toppings and load up on veggies!
4. What are the essential tools for making this pizza?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, a baking pan (preferably rectangular), a rolling pin, and a good set of measuring cups and spoons. A pizza stone is also great for achieving the best crust.
5. What’s the difference between Grandma Sicilian Pizza and traditional pizza?
The key differences lie in the shape and crust. Grandma Sicilian Pizza is baked in a rectangular pan with a thicker, crunchier crust. It also often features fresh mozzarella and a robust tomato sauce.
6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Dried herbs, like oregano or basil, can still impart great flavor. Use about a third of the amount you would if using fresh.
Conclusion
Creating Grandma Sicilian Pizza at home is a journey worth embarking on. It’s not just about the delicious food; it’s also about the memories forged in the kitchen, the laughter shared around the table, and the satisfaction of enjoying something homemade.
This pizza embodies comfort and creativity. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, every slice tells a story.
Embrace the process, have fun with the ingredients, and don’t forget to relish each bite and the stories that go along with it! So grab your apron, assemble your ingredients, and get ready to bring a bit of Italian tradition into your home.
Happy cooking!
