lunch lady pizza, a beloved classic, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its simple yet comforting appeal has transcended generations. Inspired by this nostalgic treat, I’ve embarked on a culinary journey, blending the familiar with the exotic to create a dish that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
1 cup warm water
1 packet active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Lunch Lady Square Pizza
Image Source: greatlifepublishing.net
For the Sauce:
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
A handful of crumbled feta cheese
For the Toppings:
Sliced pepperoni
Chopped fresh basil
Diced red onion
Thinly sliced jalapeño peppers
A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Preparation Process:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until thickened.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and feta cheeses.
Add your favorite toppings: pepperoni, basil, red onion, and jalapeño peppers.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
4. Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Total Time:
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Serving Ideas:
Classic: Serve hot, straight out of the oven, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Elevated: Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed with a lemon-balsamic vinaigrette.
Fusion: Serve on a bed of naan bread with a dollop of raita for a unique twist.
Cultural Fusion
This recipe is a harmonious blend of various culinary traditions. The Italian influence is evident in the pizza dough and marinara sauce, while the Greek feta cheese adds a Mediterranean touch. The Indian-inspired naan bread and raita offer a global twist, showcasing the versatility of this dish.
As I savor each bite of this global gourmet pizza, I’m reminded of the power of food to connect cultures and spark joy. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation of culinary artists worldwide.
