Arugula Prosciutto Pizza

This pizza is the perfect recipe for a fun and rustic meal. Ideal for a cozy date night or a lively family dinner, it strikes the right balance between gourmet and comfort food. It works wonderfully as a dinner when paired with a simple side salad, or as a chic appetizer for your next party. The combination of fresh, peppery arugula and savory prosciutto on a crispy crust makes every bite a delightful experience. It's easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to make any occasion feel special.

Difficulty Level: Medium

Serves: 2-4 (as a main dish) or 6-8 (as an appetizer)

Ingredients for Pizza Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3/4 cup warm water

• 1 tsp active dry yeast

Ingredients for Toppings:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced

• 2 cups arugula

• 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions for Pizza Dough:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy.

2. In a large bowl, mix together flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

3. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Instructions for Pizza: 6. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

1. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness.

2. Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.

3. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.

4. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

6. Arrange the prosciutto slices evenly on top of the cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

8. Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula and shaved Parmesan cheese.

9. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

10. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

11. Slice and serve warm.