Easy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad Recipe

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a freshly made homemade pizza paired with a vibrant and refreshing salad. If you’re looking for the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings for both comfort food and something a little healthier, look no further than this Easy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad Recipe. This delightful combination of crispy, cheesy pepperoni pizza and a fresh veggie-filled antipasto salad is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step of preparing this delicious duo. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook just starting, this recipe will ensure you create a meal everyone will love.

What is this Recipe?

This Easy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad recipe brings together two Italian-inspired favorites. The pizza features a golden, crispy crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and plenty of spicy pepperoni. Paired with it is a fresh, colorful antipasto salad loaded with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, with a tangy dressing that complements the pizza perfectly.

Together, these dishes offer the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness—comfort food meets healthy eating!

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Essential Ingredients

For the Pepperoni Pizza:

• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad:

• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Alternative Ingredients

While the ingredients listed above create a fantastic version of the recipe, feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

For the Pizza:

• Swap pepperoni for other meats like sausage, bacon, or even grilled chicken.
• Use different cheeses such as provolone or cheddar for variety.
• Add some vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for an extra punch of flavor.

For the Antipasto Salad:

• Instead of red onions, use shallots for a milder flavor.
• Swap black olives for green olives or marinated artichokes.
• Add some freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch of Italian flavor.

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Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Yield	1 pizza and 1 large salad

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Key Features

• Easy to make: With a simple dough recipe or store-bought option, this pizza and salad combo is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: Choose your favorite pizza toppings and salad ingredients.
• Fresh and satisfying: The salad provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the pizza, making it a balanced meal.
• Kid-friendly: The flavors are familiar and fun, making it a great choice for the whole family.

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(Nutrition Facts)

Nutrition Facts	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	9g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	950mg

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Directions (Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad)

Creating the Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad at home is easier than you might think, and with a little patience and the right steps, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to achieve a perfect homemade pizza paired with a refreshing salad.

Making the Homemade Pizza Dough

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a separate small bowl, activate 1 packet of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the yeast mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • Slowly pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Transfer the dough to a bowl lightly coated with oil, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it puffs up and doubles in volume.

Prepping the Pizza Toppings

2. Prepare the Toppings:
   • Slice your pepperoni into thin rounds. You’ll need about 1 cup of pepperoni for a large pizza.
   • Grate 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Set them aside for later use.
   • If you like a more colorful pizza, feel free to add additional toppings such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Making the Pizza Sauce

3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in two finely minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until their aroma fills the kitchen.
   • Add 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt to taste. Allow the sauce to gently bubble over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, giving it a quick stir every now and then.

Assembling the Pizza

4. Shape the Dough:
   • After the dough has finished rising, gently deflate it by pressing down to release any trapped air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. The thickness of the dough depends on your texture preference; a thinner dough will result in a crispier pizza.
   • Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone.
5. Top the Pizza:
   • Spread a thin, even layer of the homemade pizza sauce onto the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges for the crust.
   • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Then, layer the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese.
   • Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Baking the Pizza

6. Bake the Pizza:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, make sure it’s preheated for about 30 minutes.
   • Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
7. Final Touches:
   • Take the pizza out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps the cheese set and prevents the toppings from sliding off.

Making the Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the pizza is baking, prepare the salad. Start by chopping 1 cucumber, 1 bell pepper, and 1 red onion into bite-sized pieces. Add 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved, and a handful of mixed greens (such as arugula or spinach).
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • Toss all the freshly chopped veggies into a big mixing bowl. Add a small handful of olives (green or black) and a few slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese, if desired. Toss everything together.
3. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the salad with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve:
   • Plate the salad and serve it alongside your freshly baked pepperoni pizza. You can garnish with a few sprigs of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

This step-by-step guide ensures that your Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad is not only delicious but perfectly balanced in flavor. Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect crispy pizza crust, melty cheese, and fresh, vibrant salad every time.

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad

When it comes to creating the perfect Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad, there are a few pro tips that can take your meal from good to great. Here’s how you can ensure your pizza and salad come out flawless every time:

1. Use Fresh Dough for the Best Pizza Base: If you want a crispy yet soft pizza crust, homemade dough is the way to go. Freshly made dough will give you better texture and flavor compared to store-bought options. Allow it to rise for at least an hour to get that perfect light and airy crust.
2. Preheat Your Oven Properly: Always make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking the pizza. A hot oven (around 475°F or 245°C) will help create a crispy bottom and perfectly melted cheese. If you’re using a pizza stone, heat it up for at least 30 minutes before placing the pizza on it.
3. Don’t Overload on Sauce: While a tangy tomato sauce is essential, don’t overwhelm the pizza with too much. Too much sauce can make the crust soggy. A thin, even layer will keep your pizza crispy and allow the other flavors to shine.
4. Use High-Quality Pepperoni: For a truly flavorful pepperoni pizza, choose high-quality pepperoni. Opt for those with a natural casing and rich, spicy flavor. This will ensure your pizza has a nice bite and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
5. Toss the Salad Right Before Serving: The key to a fresh veggie antipasto salad is tossing the ingredients right before serving. This ensures that the vegetables remain crisp and the dressing doesn’t wilt the greens. Don’t forget to add a touch of Italian seasoning or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors!
6. Add a Layer of Cheese: To make your pizza extra cheesy, layer the mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza base, then add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking. This will give the pizza a rich, golden finish and an irresistible cheesy pull.
7. Serve Immediately: Both the pizza and salad are best enjoyed fresh. The crispiness of the pizza crust and the freshness of the salad are most noticeable when served immediately. Don’t wait too long after baking before slicing and serving!

By following these pro tips, you’ll be able to make a pizza that’s crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Pair it with a fresh, tangy veggie antipasto salad, and you’ve got a dish that will impress any guest.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad because it’s a combination of your favorite comfort food and fresh, healthy veggies. The homemade pizza is crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast with its light, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This recipe stands out because it balances two Italian-inspired dishes that pair together perfectly. The Pepperoni Pizza offers the richness and indulgence you crave, while the Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad brings the freshness and crunch to balance out the heaviness. Together, they create a fulfilling meal that satisfies all your taste buds.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this pizza dough from scratch?

Yes! If you want to make your own dough, simply combine flour, yeast, olive oil, salt, and warm water. Let it rise, then roll it out as instructed. Homemade dough adds an extra layer of flavor and freshness.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for pizza, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.

3. Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. However, it’s best to dress the salad right before serving to keep the vegetables fresh and crunchy.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular pizza dough for a gluten-free option. You can also make your own gluten-free dough if you prefer.

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You’ll Also Love:

• Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
• Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
• Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
• Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks

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Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza with Fresh Veggie Antipasto Salad Recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a delicious, well-rounded meal. The combination of a crispy, cheesy pizza and a fresh, vibrant salad makes for a fulfilling dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is an instant winner. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy the tasty results!

Don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this Italian-inspired feast!