Zesty Italian Veggie Pizza with Bell Peppers and Olives

This vibrant and flavorful Italian veggie pizza is a symphony of fresh, zesty ingredients. With a golden-brown, crispy crust topped with a tangy pizza sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and a medley of colorful bell peppers and black olives, each bite is a burst of Italian sunshine. A sprinkle of fragrant oregano and basil adds an aromatic depth that elevates this pizza from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're hosting a lively gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this Zesty Italian Veggie Pizza is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a smile.

In the bustling streets of Naples, where the aroma of wood-fired pizza permeates the air, a culinary masterpiece was born. It was the brainchild of a young pizzaiolo named Antonio, who yearned to create a pizza that captured the vibrant spirit of his homeland. Using only the finest ingredients, including sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant herbs, he crafted a pizza that tantalized the taste buds and ignited a passion for Italian cuisine. Over the years, Antonio's creation became a beloved tradition, passed down from generation to generation. Today, this Zesty Italian Veggie Pizza stands as a testament to his culinary genius, a testament to the joy of simple, flavorful ingredients.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped black olives
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Roll out pizza dough on a lightly greased baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Top with bell peppers, olives, oregano, and basil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Why It Works

• The combination of crisp bell peppers and savory olives adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.
• The generous layer of mozzarella cheese provides a rich, gooey base for the toppings.
• The tangy pizza sauce, made from scratch using fresh tomatoes, perfectly complements the blend of flavors.
• The use of dried oregano and basil enhances the aromatic profile, adding depth and complexity to the pizza.
• Baking the pizza at a high temperature ensures a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds a satisfying contrast to the soft and juicy toppings.