Classic Italian Pesto Flatbread

Welcome to the delicious world of Italian cuisine, where flavors dance on your palate and tradition reigns supreme. Today, we will explore a delightful recipe that captures the essence of Italy: Classic Italian Pesto Flatbread. This dish is not just a meal; it is a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the art of cooking. With its origins steeped in the Liguria region of Italy, pesto has long been a staple in Italian kitchens, and when paired with soft, warm flatbread, it creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Discover the joy of Italian cooking with this Classic Italian Pesto Flatbread recipe! This delightful dish combines fresh basil pesto with vibrant seasonal vegetables, creamy cheeses, and your choice of proteins on a warm flatbread base. Perfect for a cozy meal or a gathering, this flatbread showcases the essence of Italy through simple, high-quality ingredients. Follow our step-by-step guide to create an unforgettable dining experience at home that celebrates flavor and tradition.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon active dry yeast

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced or shredded

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, stirring until a sticky dough forms.

- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

- Lightly oil a bowl and place the kneaded dough inside, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

- Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat Oven:

- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

Shape the Flatbread:

- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. On a floured surface, roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle or circle, about 1/2 inch thick.

- Carefully remove the hot pizza stone or baking sheet from the oven and transfer the flatbread dough onto it.

Add Toppings:

- Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.

- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese over the pesto. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake:

- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Garnish and Serve:

- Remove the flatbread from the oven. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.

- Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top if desired. Slice the flatbread and serve warm.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | Serves 4-6