Top Health Benefits of Ham Pizza You Need to Know

This pizza offers a variety of essential nutrients, making it a delicious yet balanced meal when consumed in moderation. The whole wheat flour (if substituted for regular flour) provides complex carbohydrates, which are a good source of fiber and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. The mozzarella and cheddar cheese contribute a significant amount of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair. Ham adds a rich source of protein and iron, essential for muscle growth and the efficient transport of oxygen throughout the body. The inclusion of tomatoes boosts the meal's vitamin C content, which is vital for immune function, skin health, and antioxidant protection. Arugula (rocket leaves), often used as a topping, provides an excellent source of vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Although the pizza can be higher in fat due to the cheese and oil, it can be balanced by reducing the amount of cheese or opting for low-fat alternatives, making it a versatile dish for different dietary needs.

Ingredients :

Wheat Flour : 2 1/2 Cup

Water : 1 Cup

Yeast : 1 Teaspoon

Olive Oil : 2 Tablespoon

Salt : 1 Teaspoon

Sugar : 1 Teaspoon

Tomato Sauce : 3/4 Cup

Mozzarella : 200 g

Cheddar : 100 g

Ham : 150 g

Beef Sausage- Chicken Sausage- pepperoni-

Tomato : 2 Piece

arugula : 50 g

Thyme : to taste

black pepper : to taste

Italian pizza with a perfect combination of savory ham, rich cheddar cheese, and fresh arugula - a flavor adventure

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until bubbly.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth, then cover it and let it rest for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure it is hot when the pizza is ready to bake.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce and Cheese

Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough.
Top with mozzarella cheese and then cheddar cheese for an extra creamy flavor.

Step 5: Add the Ham and Tomatoes

Layer the pizza with the sliced ham and tomato slices, ensuring even distribution.

Step 6: Season the Pizza

Sprinkle black pepper and thyme over the toppings for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Pizza

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 8: Add Fresh Arugula

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and top with fresh arugula for a burst of freshness and flavor.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Slice the pizza and serve immediately, enjoying the crispy crust and delicious toppings.

Enjoy your homemade Italian pizza with cheddar, ham, and arugula!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Ham Pizza

When preparing this pizza, it is crucial to follow the steps carefully to ensure the best texture and flavor. Start by activating the yeast in warm water with sugar before mixing it with the dry ingredients. This step is essential for proper dough rise, as it ensures the yeast is alive and will help the dough rise during the resting period. Always knead the dough thoroughly for at least 10 minutes to develop the gluten, which will give the pizza its desired chewy texture. When rolling out the dough, be mindful not to roll it too thin, as this can lead to a brittle crust. After applying the toppings, including tomato sauce, mozzarella, cheddar, and ham, ensure that the oven is preheated to the correct temperature (200°C or 400°F) to get that perfect crisp crust and bubbling cheese. For best results, bake the pizza in the middle rack to ensure even cooking. Lastly, don't forget to top it with fresh arugula after baking; adding it at the end will preserve its delicate flavors and nutrients.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Ham Pizza

This pizza, while delicious, may not be suitable for all dietary preferences and health conditions. It is not suitable for a ketogenic (keto) diet, as it contains a significant amount of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar in the dough. Those following a vegan or vegetarian diet will also find this pizza unsuitable due to the inclusion of cheese and ham. For a vegan version, a cheese substitute like vegan mozzarella could be used, and the ham could be replaced with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Additionally, people who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease should use gluten-free flour in the dough to avoid gluten exposure. The pizza can be adjusted for a low-calorie diet by reducing the cheese and opting for a thinner crust. It is also high in protein, making it a good option for those looking to build muscle, but care should be taken for those on low-protein or low-fat diets to modify the ingredients. Lastly, for those on a DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), the pizza can be made healthier by reducing sodium through the use of low-sodium ham and cheese alternatives.