Name: Florida-Style Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: For The Dough:; 2 cups of all-purpose flour (more for dusting); 1 tsp sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) of instant yeast; 3/4 tsp salt; 1 cup warm water (about 110 degrees Fahrenheit); 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing); Toppings:; 1/2 cup pizza sauce (fresh or store-bought); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced red onions; Sliced bell peppers; Optional: slices of ham, pepperoni, or any other protein of your choice; Salt and pepper, to taste

For those unacquainted, Florida-style pizza is the unsung hero of regional pizza variations – a delightful combination of crisp, thin crusts and toppings that burst with fresh, vibrant flavors, all reminiscent of the state’s diverse and fresh produce. Unlike its New York or Chicago cousins, this pizza prides itself on its more laid-back approach, much like Florida’s lifestyle.

What Is Florida-Style Pizza?

Florida-style pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust and fresh, flavorful toppings. Unlike traditional New York or Chicago-style pizzas, Florida-style pizza is typically square or rectangular and is often cut into small, bite-sized squares.

Ingredients

For The Dough:

2 cups of all-purpose flour (more for dusting)
1 tsp sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) of instant yeast
3/4 tsp salt
1 cup warm water (about 110 degrees Fahrenheit)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

Toppings:

1/2 cup pizza sauce (fresh or store-bought)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onions
Sliced bell peppers
Optional: slices of ham, pepperoni, or any other protein of your choice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare The Dough:

Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it until smooth and elastic, about 7 minutes.
Grease another bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and turn it to coat with oil.
Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Preheat The Oven And Prepare The Baking Sheet:

Preheat your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit.
Brush a baking sheet (preferably rectangular for the authentic Florida-style shape) with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.

Shape The Dough:

Punch it down once the dough has risen to release any air bubbles.
Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
Stretch and press the dough into the pan, creating a thin, even layer.
Let it sit for another 15 minutes to puff up slightly.

Add Toppings:

Spread the pizza sauce over the dough evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
Arrange the tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers, and other toppings you use.
Season with salt and pepper.

Bake The Pizza:

Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
If you prefer an extra crispy base, place the baking sheet directly on a pizza stone preheated in the oven.

Garnish And Serve:

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cut the pizza into square slices, serve, and enjoy.

Tips:

Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add more water; if too sticky, add more flour.
Baking Temperature: A high oven temperature is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy crust, so make sure your oven is sufficiently preheated.
Freshness of Ingredients: Since Florida style emphasizes fresh, bright flavors, try to use the freshest ingredients possible, particularly for the toppings.

What To Serve With

Citrusy Mixed Green Salad: A light and zesty salad pairs wonderfully with a Florida-style pizza’s crispy crust and hearty toppings. Toss mixed greens (like arugula, spinach, and romaine) with orange segments, thinly sliced red onions, and avocado. Dress the salad with a citrus vinaigrette from orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. This salad brings a refreshing contrast to the pizza with its bright flavors and textures.
Cilantro Lime Corn: Corn on the cob, seasoned with butter, cilantro, and lime, adds a sweet and tangy side that complements the savory-sweet balance of the pizza. Boil or grill the corn until tender, then brush with melted butter mixed with finely chopped cilantro, lime zest, and a squeeze of lime juice. This side dish echoes the sunny, tropical vibes of Florida.
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fried: Baked or air-fried zucchini fries make a healthier alternative to traditional fries and go great with pizza. Coat sliced zucchini in a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, then bake until crispy. These can be dipped in marinara sauce for flavor, mirroring a classic pizza component.
Mango Salsa: A bowl of fresh mango salsa adds a sweet, spicy, and tangy dimension to Florida-style pizza. Combine diced mango, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa is particularly delicious with pizzas that feature seafood toppings, emphasizing Florida’s coastal essence.
Coconut Shrimp: For a more indulgent complement, coconut shrimp offers a delightful crunch and sweet flavor that pairs nicely with the pizza. Dip the shrimp in a batter of flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with shredded coconut, then deep-fry until golden. For an authentic Florida twist, serve with a tangy dipping sauce like sweet chili, pineapple, and rum sauce.
Key Lime Pie Martini: No Florida-themed meal is complete without a nod to the state’s iconic dessert, Key Lime Pie. To round out the meal, serve a Key Lime Pie martini as a dessert cocktail. Mix vanilla vodka, key lime juice, a splash of cream, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Serve in a graham cracker-rimmed glass for that unmistakable essential lime pie flavor.
Sweet Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic beverage option, sweet iced tea is refreshing and perfectly complements the diverse flavors of your meal. Brew your favorite black tea, sweeten it to your liking while still warm, and serve over ice with a slice of lemon.

Health Benefits

Emphasis on Seafood Toppings: Florida-style pizzas often feature a variety of seafood toppings, such as shrimp, lobster, or smoked salmon. Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins like B12 and D, and minerals such as selenium and iodine. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for heart health, aiding in preventing heart disease by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
Use of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: These pizzas might also be adorned with a generous portion of fresh vegetables and fruits, ranging from bell peppers, tomatoes, and arugula to tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. Fresh produce is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can contribute to improved digestive health, lower risk of chronic diseases, and an overall well-balanced diet. Vitamins such as Vitamin C in citrus fruits and tomatoes can help boost the immune system and aid skin health.
Whole Grain or Alternative Crust Options: Some Florida-style pizzas may come with the option for a whole grain or alternative crusts such as cauliflower, adding a healthier base with more fiber and fewer refined carbohydrates. These options can contribute to better blood sugar control, higher satiety levels, and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, alternative crusts can offer people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease a delicious way to enjoy pizza without the adverse effects caused by traditional wheat crusts.
Reduced Cheese or Dairy-Free Options: In keeping with the light, fresh theme, Florida-style pizzas might use a lighter hand with cheese or offer dairy-free cheese alternatives. Reducing the amount of cheese lowers the pizza’s saturated fat and calorie content, making it a heart-friendlier choice. For those with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities, dairy-free options can prevent discomfort and promote digestive wellness.
Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil: Instead of heavy sauces or creams, Florida-style pizzas may be seasoned with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and oregano and drizzled with olive oil. Fresh herbs add flavor without extra calories or sodium and contain various antioxidants and health-benefiting phytochemicals. Olive oil is a primary component of the Mediterranean diet, lauded for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, known to reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases.
Promotes a Balanced Diet: The combination of lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains (if chosen) in a Florida-style pizza can contribute to a well-rounded, nutritious meal. When consumed as part of a balanced diet, this pizza variant can help one meet dietary recommendations for various nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

the allure of Florida-style pizza extends far beyond its sunny origin and tropical flair; it represents a harmonized blend of health, taste, and innovation. With its unique focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including an array of seafood, vibrant fruits and vegetables, alternative crust options, and lighter cheese usage, this coastal pizza variant stands out in the vast sea of pizza styles.

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