This Arugula Salami Pizza is a fresh twist on the classic. With bright, peppery arugula and flavorful salami, it’s a delicious combination that everyone will enjoy!
I love how the arugula adds a nice crunch on top of the warm, cheesy pizza. It feels like a gourmet treat that’s easy to make—perfect for pizza night or any day! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use homemade or store-bought dough. If you’re short on time, a pre-made dough from the supermarket works great! For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or cauliflower crust.
Pizza Sauce: A basic marinara sauce is perfect. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use pesto for a unique twist. If you want it less saucy, just drizzle a little olive oil directly on the dough instead!
Cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to mix in some provolone or fontina for extra flavor. I personally love a blend of cheeses for more depth!
Salami: Salami gives a nice spice, but if you’re looking for something lighter, you can use turkey or chicken sausage. Vegetarian options like mushrooms or spinach can also replace the meat.
Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula is key, but if you can’t find it, you could use baby spinach or even kale, though the flavor will be a bit milder.
How Can I Get the Perfect Pizza Crust?
Getting that perfect pizza crust is easier than it may seem! Start with a hot oven (475°F is ideal); it helps the crust puff up nicely. Rolling the dough evenly ensures it cooks uniformly, and don’t forget to flour your surface!
- Roll out dough to about 12 inches, leaving a thicker edge for the crust.
- Use parchment paper to transfer the dough—it makes it easy to handle and prevents sticking.
- For extra crispiness, pre-bake the crust for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings. This helps avoid a soggy bottom!
With these tips, you’ll have a crust that’s perfectly golden and crispy every time! Enjoy your pizza! 🍕
Arugula Salami Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade dough for a 12-inch pizza)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-25 slices of pepperoni or salami
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouth-watering Arugula Salami Pizza takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to bake. So, you can have this delightful pizza ready in just under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun pizza night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it gets nice and hot.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. If you’re using store-bought dough, just follow the package directions. Once rolled, transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy handling later.
3. Add the Sauce:
Pour the pizza sauce over the rolled-out dough. Use a spoon to spread it evenly, leaving about half an inch around the edges for the crust.
4. Sprinkle on the Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure to cover it completely.
5. Layer the Salami:
Now, take your salami or pepperoni slices and arrange them evenly over the cheese. This will give you that tasty savory flavor as they cook!
6. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully place the pizza (with the parchment paper) on the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and a little crispy.
7. Prepare the Arugula Topping:
While the pizza is baking, take a small bowl and toss the fresh arugula leaves with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This will ensure the arugula is seasoned perfectly when it goes on top!
8. Finish the Pizza:
Once your pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately scatter the dressed arugula over the top. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, making it delicious!
9. Add Parmesan (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.
10. Slice and Serve:
Now it’s time to slice your pizza and serve it up while it’s still warm and crispy. Enjoy your homemade Arugula Salami Pizza with friends and family!
Delicious and fresh, this pizza offers a wonderful balance of flavors that you and your loved ones will adore. Happy eating! 🍕
Can I Use Homemade Dough Instead of Pre-Made?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, go for it. Just make sure to roll it out to about 12 inches in diameter and follow the same steps for sauce and toppings. Homemade dough can enhance the flavor and texture!
How Can I Make This Pizza Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the pizza sauce or sprinkle them over the salami before baking. Alternatively, swap out regular salami for spicy varieties!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispy crust.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with your favorite toppings. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even olives can complement the salami and arugula beautifully.
