Spring pizza with green peas, goat cheese and herbs

Ingredients

Spring Pizza

7 grams (0.25 ounces) fast-acting yeast
15 grams (3 teaspoons) sugar
250 milliliters (1 cup) warm milk
65 grams (2.3 ounces) corn flour
450 grams (15.9 ounces) wheat flour
1 egg
20 milliliters (4 teaspoons) olive oil
300 grams (10.6 ounces) green peas
1 small bunch of mint
250 grams (8.8 ounces) soft goat cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) lemon juice
5 asparagus spears
200 grams (7 ounces) lettuce leaves for serving

Equipment

Large Mixing Bowl
This is essential for combining and kneading your dough. Make sure it's big enough for the dough to rise without sticking to the cover.
Mixer with Dough Hook
If you prefer not to knead by hand, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment will save time and energy.
Blender
The blender is key for making a smooth pea and mint puree. A high-speed blender works best.
Parchment Paper
Using parchment paper prevents the pizza from sticking to the baking tray and makes cleanup a breeze.
Rolling Pin
A rolling pin helps you achieve evenly thin dough, which is crucial for this recipe.
Oven Thermometer
Ensure your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking to get that golden crust.

Instructions

Step 1

1. **Heat milk to 104°F (40°C)**. For the dough, in a large bowl mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Leave the mixture for 10 minutes until foam appears. If you are using fast-acting or instant yeast, then skip this step and add the yeast directly to the flour.

Step 2

2. In a large bowl or a mixer bowl, combine wheat flour, corn flour, and yeast (if using instant). Add the egg, olive oil, and then stir in the warm milk. Knead until smooth and uniform. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook can make the kneading process easier and more efficient.

Step 3

3. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover with cling film, and leave to rise in a warm place for an hour, or until it has doubled in size. A slightly warm oven (turned off) can be a good place to let the dough rise.

Step 4

4. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Blanch the peas in boiling water for a few minutes until soft. Then, place the peas and mint in a blender and puree until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, and pour in the lemon juice and olive oil. Mix well.

Step 5

5. Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface and divide it into the desired number of equal parts, depending on the size of pizza you want to cook (2-8). If you prefer thinner crusts, you can make more smaller portions.

Step 6

6. Preheat the oven to 392°F (200°C). A preheated pizza stone can help produce a crispier crust.

Step 7

7. Roll each piece of dough into a thin layer and transfer to parchment paper greased with olive oil.

Step 8

8. Cut the asparagus in half lengthwise. Spread the mashed peas over each pizza, top with crumbled goat cheese, and place the asparagus on top. Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 9

9. Bake for 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the pizza. Smaller pizzas will bake faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 10

10. When finished baking, drizzle the pizzas with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle with lettuce leaves before serving. You can add some extra lemon zest for a fresh zing.

Servings

🍴 **Serving Suggestions and Ideas** 🍴

Once your tantalizing spring pizza is out of the oven, it's time to serve it in style! Consider using a large wooden board for that attractive, rustic look. 🌿 Arrange the freshly baked pizza slices alongside a bowl of green salad or a selection of fresh fruits to add that extra touch of color on your dining table.

If you’re hosting a brunch, consider pairing the pizza with a refreshing sangria or a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect match. 🍷 Hosting a family meal? Serve the pizza with a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy marinara. Trust us, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

For a kid-friendly version, you can easily make mini pizzas. These are not only adorable but also practical for little hands. Just make sure to allow them to cool down a bit before serving. ❤️ The memories of having a pizza together will be cherished by everyone around the table.

Variations

🌱 **Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations** 🌱

We know dietary preferences are important, so here are some variations to make this Spring Pizza both gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

For a Gluten-Free Pizza: Replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free pizza dough mix. Also, ensure your corn flour is certified gluten-free.

For a Vegan Pizza: Skip the egg in the dough and use a flaxseed or chia seed gel (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). Replace the goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. Opt for nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy. 💚

These variations will allow everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness of this seasonal treat!

Faq

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel light and airy. This usually takes about an hour in a warm place.
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can! Just thaw and blanch them as directed in the recipe.
How thin should I roll the pizza dough?
Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness. This ensures the pizza cooks evenly and has a nice crispy crust.
What if my asparagus is too thick?
If your asparagus is thick, slice it lengthwise as thinly as possible to ensure it cooks evenly with the pizza.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Absolutely! Once the dough has risen, divide it into portions, wrap in plastic, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.