Pizza Salame Recipe: How to Make the Best Homemade Italian Classic

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Written By Nittany Pizza

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If you’re craving a slice of Italy, pizza salame is the perfect way to satisfy your taste buds. With its thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and bold, flavorful salami, this classic Italian dish delivers a mouthwatering experience in every bite. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your table.

Pizza salame isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and authentic Italian tradition. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a cozy night in, or just looking to elevate your pizza game, this recipe will transport you straight to the pizzerias of Naples. Why settle for takeout when you can create something so delicious right in your own kitchen?

Ingredients

Ingredients
Ingredients

Creating pizza salame at home requires a handful of fresh, simple ingredients. Let’s break them down into three parts for an organized approach to your cooking: the dough, the sauce, and the toppings.

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (around 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt to taste

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 ounces sliced salami
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Olive oil drizzle (optional, for added flavor)

Tools And Equipment

To achieve the perfect pizza salame at home, you’ll need a collection of essential tools and equipment for preparation and cooking. Start by gathering a large mixing bowl for combining your dough ingredients. You’ll also need a clean kitchen towel to cover the dough as it rises.

Next, ensure you have a rolling pin to stretch the pizza dough evenly. A sturdy baking sheet or, ideally, a pizza stone is key for baking your pizza to achieve that crispy, restaurant-style crust. If using a pizza stone, preheat it in your oven for the best results.

A sharp knife or pizza cutter is necessary for slicing the fresh salami and serving the finished pizza. Keep a wooden or silicone spatula handy for spreading the tomato sauce smoothly over the dough.

Finally, an oven thermometer is useful for ensuring the ideal cooking temperature of 475°F is reached, as consistency in baking temperature is critical. If desired, you can also use a pizza peel to safely transfer your pizza in and out of the hot oven.

Directions

Directions
Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade pizza salame. Start with preparing the dough, then move on to making a flavorful sauce, and finally assemble your pizza for baking perfection.

Preparing The Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
  2. Gradually pour in 3/4 cup of warm water (not hot) and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Use a wooden spoon to mix until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it with your hands for about 8 to 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl, lightly greased with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm spot, or until it doubles in size.

Making The Sauce

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Pour in 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil, and season with salt to taste.
  3. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set the sauce aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the pizza.

Assembling The Pizza Salame

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
  2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle or desired shape.
  3. Place the dough onto a sturdy baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone using a pizza peel.
  4. Spread a thin, even layer of your prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of crust around the edges.
  5. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, evenly distribute 12 to 15 slices of salami on top of the cheese.
  6. If desired, add a drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish.
  7. Bake the pizza for 12 to 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy, the cheese is bubbly, and the salami edges are slightly crisp.
  8. Carefully remove the pizza from the oven using a pizza peel. Allow it to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Baking Instructions

Baking Instructions
Baking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for a crisp and well-cooked crust. Place your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven during preheating to heat it thoroughly. A preheated surface is key for achieving a professional-quality pizza base.

Roll out your risen dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thinness. Carefully dust your rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking and work outwardly, keeping the shape circular. Transfer the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.

Spread an even layer of your freshly-made tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about half an inch of the edge untouched for a defined crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, ensuring no area is uncovered. Arrange your sliced salami evenly across the pizza, slightly overlapping if you prefer bold, layered flavor.

Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the heated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake the pizza on the middle rack for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbling, and the salami edges curl slightly for a crispy bite. If needed, rotate the pizza halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking.

Once baked, use a spatula or pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool on a cutting board for about 3 to 5 minutes to allow the toppings to settle. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle olive oil lightly for an authentic Italian finish. Slice with a sharp pizza cutter or knife, and serve immediately while warm.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Make Ahead Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare parts of your pizza salame in advance to save time on busy days. Start by making the pizza dough ahead of time. After kneading and allowing it to rise, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it inside an airtight container. The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften before shaping.

Prepare the tomato sauce in advance as well. Once it’s cooked and cooled, transfer the sauce to a sealed container or a mason jar. Refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. If frozen, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and warm it slightly before assembling your pizza.

Slice the salami and shred the mozzarella cheese beforehand to streamline assembly. Store the salami slices and cheese separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Ensure the cheese remains dry and doesn’t absorb moisture by patting it with paper towels if needed.

When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pizza with your pre-prepped components, following the steps outlined previously.

Tips For The Perfect Pizza Salame

Achieving a flawless pizza salame at home is all about careful preparation and attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your pizza-making experience.

  1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Always choose the freshest ingredients available. Opt for fresh, whole mozzarella instead of pre-shredded varieties to ensure a creamy, gooey texture. Select a salami with bold flavor and a slight hint of spice to perfectly complement the cheese and sauce. Using ripe canned tomatoes for the sauce will add depth and balance to your pizza’s flavor.

1. Let The Dough Rise Properly

Patience is key when making pizza dough. Allow the dough to rise for at least 1 to 2 hours in a warm environment until it doubles in size. This resting period creates a light and airy crust with just the right amount of chewiness.

2, Preheat Your Oven And Equipment

Set your oven to the highest temperature it can reach, ideally 475°F (245°C). Preheating your pizza stone or baking sheet ensures a crisp bottom crust, helping achieve the ideal texture for your pizza salame.

3. Roll The Dough Evenly

Roll or stretch the dough evenly to about 10–12 inches in diameter. An even base helps prevent overly thick or soggy spots. Lightly dusting your surface with flour or semolina prevents sticking and ensures smooth dough preparation.

4. Spread The Sauce Thinly

Avoid overpowering the crust by spreading the sauce sparingly. A thin, even layer allows the flavors of the cheese and salami to shine while keeping the crust crispy.

5. Layer Toppings Strategically

Distribute the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce. Place your salami slices on top of the cheese to let them crisp slightly as they bake. For extra indulgence, drizzle a few drops of olive oil before baking.

6. Watch The Baking Time

Keep a close eye on your pizza while it bakes. Most pizza salame takes only 10 to 12 minutes, depending on your oven’s heat. Look for bubbling cheese and a golden crust as clear indicators that it’s ready.

7. Let The Pizza Rest Before Serving

Allow your pizza to cool for a minute or two after baking. This step helps the toppings set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for the final touch.

Using these tips, you’ll create pizza salame that rivals any restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your kitchen.

Conclusion

Pizza salame is more than just a dish; it’s an opportunity to bring authentic Italian flavors to your table. By using fresh ingredients, the right tools, and simple techniques, you can create a pizza that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this homemade recipe lets you savor every bite of crispy crust, rich sauce, and savory salami. With a little preparation and care, your pizza salame will rival any restaurant-quality pie.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let your kitchen become the heart of Italian tradition. The perfect pizza salame awaits!

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