Cheese & Herb Recipe
Make Cheese & Herb Recipe in just 1h 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Dough / Base
Cheese & Herb Topping
Finish & Garnish
Method
Dough / Base
- 1
Activate yeast and combine
In a medium bowl combine warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–45°C) with the sugar and instant yeast. Stir and let rest 3–5 minutes until slightly foamy.
- 2
Make dough
In a large bowl whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well, add the foamy yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- 3
Knead
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium for 5 minutes.
- 4
Cheese & Herb Topping
- 5
Prepare cheese-herb mixture
While the dough rises, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, oregano/thyme, lemon zest (if using), black pepper, red pepper flakes and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil until cohesive. Taste and adjust salt or herbs as desired.
- 6
Preheat oven
Position an oven rack in the middle and preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
Assembly & Bake
- 7
Shape dough
When dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch into a 10–12 inch round or rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a peel dusted with semolina if using a stone.
- 8
Add topping
Spread the cheese and herb mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust. If you like a slightly crispier top, sprinkle an additional 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella over the spread.
- 9
Bake
Brush the exposed crust with the melted butter or a little olive oil. Slide the baking sheet (or peel) into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned at the edges.
Finish & Serve
- 10
Garnish and rest
Remove from oven and immediately drizzle with a little extra-virgin olive oil if desired. Sprinkle with the extra chopped herbs. Let rest 3–5 minutes to set so the cheese doesn’t run.
- 11
Slice and serve
Slice into wedges or squares. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or alongside a green salad.