Tips for this recipe
To achieve the perfect balance of crispness and melt in your Phyllo Pizza, ensure that you do not overcook it. Keep an eye on it as baking times can vary slightly based on oven calibration and phyllo thickness. Additionally, brushing each sheet with butter will help to prevent sticking while adding flavor.
Why you will love this recipe
The Phyllo Pizza is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that cater to both the traditional pizza lovers and those seeking an innovative twist on classic dishes. Its combination of smoked mozzareña, cherry tomatoes, and vibrant vegetables provides a fresh take with bold flavors, while its crispy phyllo base gives it that authentic touch.
Ingredients
12 to 13 ounces cherry tomatoes and/or pear tomatoes
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 12×9-inch sheets fresh phyllo pastry
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
4 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup (packed) coarsely grated smoked mozzarella cheese*
Yellow bell pepper strips
Quartered pitted Kalamata olives
Coarsely chopped fresh oregano
Adviced equipments
– Silicone Pizza Cutter: Efficiently cuts through the delicate phyllo without sticking.
– Small Rolling Pin: Rolls out and presses dough to desired thickness for layers.
– Oven Thermometer: Ensures your oven is at the correct temperature, crucial for perfect baking conditions.
– Baking Sheet (Pizza Stone): Offers even heat distribution for an ideal crispy pizza base.
– Digital Scale: Allows precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.
– Chef’s Knife: Vital for prepping vegetables and handling phyllo sheets with care.
– Parchment Paper: Prevents the bottom crust from burning, providing an easy transfer to baking sheet.
History of the recipe
Phyllo dough has its origins in the Mediterranean and Middle East, where it was made as a thin unleavened flatbread. This particular pizza variant brings together the essence of various culinary traditions by incorporating phyllo—a symbol of Greek cuisine—with tomatoes and cheese that are staples in Mediterranean cooking. The smoked mozzarella introduces a unique, indulgent twist reminiscent of Italian charred flavors. Cherry tomatoes represent the rise in popularity of fresh produce and globalization in modern culinary trends. This recipe celebrates these diverse influences while paying homage to the simplicity and joy that phyllo pizza has brought to home cooks for generations.
fun facts about this recipe
1. The smoky essence from the mozzarella cheese adds a depth of flavor not commonly found in traditional pizzas, making each bite an exciting gustatory experience.
2. Phyllo dough requires finesse and precision due to its delicate nature; it’s a culinary art that demands both skill and practice—thus elevating your cooking prowess with every layer you build.
3. The versatility of phyllo allows for various adaptations, including sweet or savory dishes like baklava or spanakopita; it’s a testament to the culinary creativity embedded in its history and usage across cultures.
