Marisa's Italian Kitchen

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pizza

Pizza with sausage and sweet peppers

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A thick crust Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers is my all time favourite kind of pizza. It’s topped with an easy to make homemade tomato sauce! Mildly spicy Italian sausages are scattered over the mozzarella layers. And, then topped with pan roasted sweet red bell peppers. It bakes up beautifully with a crispy outer layer. Delicioso!

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

This Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers post was originally published February 9, 2015. It’s been updated with new photos and content and republished March 9, 2019.

Pizza has got to be one of the most popular dishes to come out of Italy. There are endless possibilities!

From thin crust to thick crust and with a large variety of cheeses to choose from as well as sauces and toppings. It’s so much fun to make and in less time than you might think.

This pizza with sausage and sweet peppers is a family favourite. The combination of mildly spicy sausage and pan roasted sweet red bell peppers is a delicious combination. The dough bakes up just beautifully! It’s soft and airy on the inside with a crunchy, crispy outer layer.

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

As with most traditional Italian mammas, mine would make pizza once a week for us. There was no ordering in or take out in our family! It simply was not done!

She would say “che vergogna”! What a disgrace! So now, I too make my own pizza once a week. Like… religiously!

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

If you have never made pizza before do give it a try. There is something so comforting from creating dough from scratch!

With just a few simple ingredients listed below, you literally have fresh homemade pizza dough in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients for Homemade Pizza Dough

  • warm water
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • all purpose flour
  • salt
  • instant yeast
  • eggs

It’s a wonderful egg based dough!

You’ll need to let it rise in a draft free place.

On a sunny day I place my bowl of pizza dough on my dinning table where the sun comes shining through. It rises beautifully and works every time ! On a not so sunny day I let my dough rise on my kitchen counter right under one of the spotlights from underneath the kitchen cabinets. This works like a charm!

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

Ingredients For Pizza Toppings

  • Italian sausages
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • onions
  • red bell peppers
  • mozzarella

I first brown my my meat in a skillet with a little oil, just to get them a little caramelized on the edges. Them I simply transfer the browned meat to a plate so that I can use the same skillet to pan roast the veggies. Why dirty another skillet…right?

The pan roasted sweet bell peppers and onions are hands down my favourite pizza toppings.

You can, however, simply slice the bell peppers and layer them over the pizza.

In this case I would then brown the sausage with the sliced onions in the same pan.

Either way it’s sure to be delicious!

Ingredients For Homemade Pizza Sauce

  • ground tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • garlic cloves
  • fresh or dried herbs (oregano, basil and parsley)
  • salt and black pepper

The ingredients are pretty straight forward and which you probably already have on hand.

I love the San Marzano tomatoes as these are quite flavourful and sweeter then other varieties. They also have a low acidity level and really don’t have that many seeds in them.

You can use either fresh or dried herbs. Whichever is at your most convenient is quite fine.

The sauce yields approximately 3 1/2 cups. However you will only need 1 1/4 cup to top the 2 large pizzas. You can freeze the rest for future use for up to 6 months. But I’m quite confident you won’t be waiting that long to make pizza again!

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

So here you have my traditional Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers. It’s pure comfort food at my house and we so look forward to this treat every single week!

If you make this recipe remember to tag @marisasitaliankitchen on Instagram so I can see your creation!

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers.
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Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers

Pizza with Sausage and Sweet Peppers and a homemade tomato sauce. This thick crust pizza is topped with Italian sausages and pan roasted red bell peppers.

Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Keyword homemade pizza sauce, italian sausage, pizza, sweet peppers
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 28 minutes
Servings 2 16 inch pizzas
Author Marisa

Ingredients

PIZZA DOUGH

  • 2 cups warm water
  • 4 tbs olive oil
  • 4 to 5 cups of all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt I use fine sea salt
  • 1 packet "quick rise" instant yeast I use Fleischmann's 8 grams
  • 2 large eggs

PIZZA SAUCE

  • 1 28 ounes ground tomatoes preferably San Marzano
  • 5 cloves of garlic minced
  • 2 tsp each of dried oregano, basil and parsley if using fresh, increase to 1 tbs each
  • salt and pepper to your taste

PIZZA TOPPING

  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 links of mild Italian sausage about 1 pound
  • 2 medium onions sliced thinly
  • 4 large red bell peppers cut to 1 inch pieces
  • 4 cups grated or shredded mozzarella cheese or as much cheese as you like

Instructions

PIZZA DOUGH

  1. In a medium size bowl, stir together 3 cups of the flour, salt and the yeast.

  2. Heat 2 cups of water with 4 tbs of olive oil in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds. Take note that if your water is not warm enough the yeast will not activate. If it's too hot it will kill the yeast.  

  3. Stir the warm liquids in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon. 

  4. Add in the 2 eggs and stir till very well combined.

  5. Stir in another cup of flour.

  6. Transfer the dough onto a well floured work surface and knead for about 5 minutes working in the last cup of flour a bit at a time just until the dough is soft and smooth. You may not even need the whole last cup of flour.

  7. Grease a large bowl with some olive oil and place your pizza dough in the greased bowl turning the dough to grease all over.  

  8. Cover with cling wrap and let it rise till it doubles in size, for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. 

  9. While the dough is rising prepare the pizza sauce and toppings.

PIZZA SAUCE

  1. Combine all the ingredients for the pizza sauce in a medium sized bowl and stir until well combined then set aside.

  2. You will only need half of the prepared pizza sauce divided among the two pizzas. Freeze and store the remaining half for the next use.

PIZZA TOPPING

  1. Heat the olive oil in a fry pan and brown the sausage while breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon for about 10 minutes. 

  2. Transfer the sausage to a large plate and set aside.

  3. Using the same frying pan, add in the cut sweet bell peppers and onions.

  4. Pan roast the veggies on medium high heat for about 7 minutes with a dash of salt and pepper, adding a little olive oil only if needed.

  5. Set aside to cool.

  6. When the dough has risen and doubled in size, transfer it onto a well floured counter and cut it in half.  

  7. Working with one half at a time, roll the dough out on a floured work surface using a floured rolling pin and roll to fit your pan. 

  8. Transfer the rolled pizza dough to your baking pan and repeat with the second half of the pizza dough.

  9. Note that I use two 16" round perforated pans and I roll it out with a well floured rolling pin and on a floured counter.

  10. If the dough seems to resist rolling just let it rest for a minute then continue rolling it out.

  11. A perforated pizza pan does not need to be oiled. If you do not have a round perforated pizza pan you can use a cookie sheet which has been lightly greased.

  12. Spread the reserved pizza sauce over the the pizza dough using the back of a spoon. 

  13. Sprinkle the 2 pizzas evenly with the grated mozzarella.

  14. Top with the sautéed sausages and pan roasted veggies.

  15. Bake in a preheated oven @ 425 degrees F, for about 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

 

 

Schiacciata Con L’uva

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Schiacciata con l’uva is a sweet flatbread with grapes. More commonly known as focaccia, this flatbread is a seasonal dish made yearly during the grape harvest in Tuscany.

Schiacciata Con L'uva

This recipe was originally published in October of 2016 and republished September 14, 2018 with updated content and photos.

There is much to embrace with the arrival of Fall. As the days get cooler and the air turns crisp, I get this sudden urge to roll up my sleeves and delve into the magical world of bread making. Or any sort of baking for that matter and wanting only to come up for air well after the Christmas holidays. Is it just me or do any of you feel the same way?

A little about coronation grapes

This time of the year grocery stores and local farmer’s markets are laden with thin skinned, seedless coronation grapes. A rather regal name for these Ontario blue grapes is it not!

They are vibrant blue in colour much like their relative the concord grape and quite interchangeable when making schiacciata con l’uva. Also, they have a deliciously sweet taste that simply bursts in the mouth, making them a perfect choice for baking or even preserving.

The sweetness of the coronation grape pairs beautifully with the savoury rosemary. Once baked you’ll find they mimic the taste of grape jam on toast. Definitely a lip smacking and finger licking delicacy!

Schiacciata Con L'uva

This Tuscan flatbread consists of two layers of dough which are sandwiched together with a filling of seedless blue grapes, a sprinkle of sugar, chopped rosemary and a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil and topped with more of the same filling.

Schiacciata Con L'uva

It’s then baked to a golden brown perfection with yummy crispy edges that we all love.

You can slice and enjoy as is while still warm with the grapes oozing their irresistible sweet juices. Or simply dust the tops with a sprinkle of icing sugar for some extra sweetness.

Schiacciata Con L'uva

Gather friends or family around your kitchen and bake some today! I’m sure it will become a new favourite seasonal recipe!

If you make this recipe remember to tag @marisasitaliankitchen on Instagram so I can see your creation!

Schiacciata Con L'uva
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Schiacciata Con L'uva

Schiacciata con l'uva is a sweet flatbread with grapes, a seasonal dish that is traditionally made during the grape harvest in Tuscany.
Course Tuscan Flatbread
Cuisine Italian
Servings 24 pieces
Author Marisa

Ingredients

  • Focaccia dough
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 tbs olive oil
  • 4 to 5 cups of all purpose flour
  • 2 tbs sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 packet “quick rise” instant yeast Fleischmann’s 8 grams
  • Topping
  • 2 cups grapes picked off the stem
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 cups of water with 4 tablespoons of olive oil in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds or till lukewarm.
  2. Stir the warm liquids in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon, mixing well.
  3. Stir in another cup of flour till combined.
  4. Invert the dough onto a well floured counter and knead for a few minutes, working in the last cup of flour a bit at a time just until the dough is soft and smooth. (I only used up to 1/2 cup of the remaining flour).
  5. Grease a large bowl with some olive oil. Place your pizza dough in the greased bowl turning the dough to grease all over. Cover with saran wrap.
  6. Let it rise till it doubles in size for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, in a draft free place. (on a sunny day I place my bowl in direct sunlight and this helps tremendously with the rising).
  7. When your dough has doubled in size, transfer it onto a floured work space.
  8. Grease a 17x11 rimmed baking sheet (or any large baking sheet you have) with some olive oil and then lightly sprinkle evenly with cornmeal. This will prevent the dough from sticking to the pan and impart a lovely crunch.
  9. Cut the dough in half and working with one piece at a time roll it out to the size of your pan. (its ok if it does not entirely reach the edges).
  10. Place the first layer of rolled out dough on your prepared pan.
  11. Layer 1 cup of the grapes, evenly spread, onto the dough while pressing them slightly into the dough.
  12. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary, evenly onto the first layer of dough. Drizzle with some extra virgin olive oil.
  13. Roll out the second piece of dough and layer it onto prepared first layer. Press down slightly and pinch the edges together.
  14. Spread the remaining grapes over the top layer of dough, again pressing down into the dough.
  15. Sprinkle with an additional 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary.
  16. Drizzle more extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top layer.
  17. Bake the flatbread in a preheated oven, at 350 degrees F, for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the dough is a nice golden brown and the grapes are oozing with delicious goodness.

 

 

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

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Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone are warm pockets of pizza dough stuffed with braised Swiss chard, fresh mozzarella, sweet golden raisins and toasted pine nuts for a delicious lunch or anytime snack.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

There is something deeply pleasing to me which comes in part from a continuity of sorts when making traditional meals. I find they bring to mind such fond memories of a time when those before us lovingly prepared the same food we so treasure to this very day.

Usually served during the Easter celebrations, these Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone are so delicious you’ll want to make them all year round.

Although calzone can be stuffed with just about anything, these Swiss chard filled ones brimming with sweet raisins and tender pine nuts is a typical childhood dish. Sliced in small vertical pieces, they were always served as part of our antipasto before lunch or even dinner.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

I used a very basic focaccia dough recipe for my calzone, much like the dough used to make my Schiacciata Con L’uva.

However, if your pressed for time store bought pizza dough will also work beautifully.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

Once assembled, all that’s needed is a light brushing of olive oil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and some dried parsley flakes.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

A very hot oven works best therefore you’ll want to preheat your oven to a very high temperature of 425 or 450 degrees F to achieve a crispy outer crust.

These Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone also make a rather relaxed meal accompanied with a crispy salad and complimented with a glass of wine.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

Enjoy them hot or cold and should you be so lucky to have any leftovers the next day try heating them up in a skillet or even a panini press. While the outer layers crisp up nicely the vegetable filled centers remain soft offering up a lovely contrast.

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

Buon Appetito!

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone
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Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone

Swiss Chard Mozzarella Calzone are warm pockets of pizza dough stuffed with braised Swiss chard, fresh mozzarella, sweet golden raisins and pine nuts for a delicious lunch or anytime snack.
Course Calzone
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 , 8 inch half moon calzone
Author Marisa

Ingredients

  • PIZZA DOUGH
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 to 5 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 8 grams quick rise instant yeast
  • SWISS CHARD FILLING
  • 2 big bunches of Swiss chard rinsed and chopped into 1 inch pieces (stems included)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves smashed
  • 2 generous pinches of red chili pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted (see note)
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella diced
  • Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
  • dry parsley flakes for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 cups of water with 4 tablespoons of olive oil in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds or till lukewarm.
  2. In a large bowl combine 3 cups of flour, salt, yeast and stir well.
  3. Stir the warm liquids in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon, mixing well.
  4. Stir in another cup of flour till combined.
  5. Invert the dough onto a well floured counter and knead for a few minutes, working in the last cup of flour a bit at a time just until the dough is soft and smooth.
  6. Grease a large bowl with some olive oil. Place your pizza dough in the greased bowl turning the dough to grease all over. Cover with saran wrap.
  7. Let it rise till it doubles in size for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, in a draft free place.
  8. SWISS CHARD FILLING
  9. While the pizza dough rises prepare the Swiss chard filling.
  10. Heat about 4 inches of water in a very large stock pot.
  11. When water comes to a boil add in the Swiss chard and salt to taste.
  12. Lower the heat and cook the greens for about 10 minutes.
  13. Drain and set aside.
  14. In a large frying pan, add the oil with the smashed garlic, chili flakes and cook for about 1 minute or until the garlic is just slightly golden.
  15. Add in the drained swiss chard, pine nuts, raisins and salt and pepper to taste.
  16. Stir and cook the mixture for a few minutes, until the liquid evaporates.
  17. Set aside to cool.
  18. PREHEAT OVEN TO 425 degrees F"
  19. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  20. Transfer the pizza dough to a floured surface and divide into 4 equal pieces.
  21. Roll each piece into an 8 inch round circle and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  22. Divide the Swiss chard mixture evenly between the 4 pizza rounds leaving a 1 inch border, topping one half while leaving the other half extended.
  23. Sprinkle the diced mozzarella over the filling onto each calzone.
  24. Fold the extended half over the filling while pressing to seal around the edges to secure the filling.
  25. Use a fork to press down along the outer edge or use your fingers to crimp the edges.
  26. Brush some olive oil over each calzone.
  27. Sprinkle each calzone with Parmesan cheese and dried parsley.
  28. Bake for 30 minutes switching the pans half way through for even baking.
  29. When ready the calzone will be puffed and golden brown.
  30. Let cook a little before slicing and serving.

Recipe Notes

Toast the pine nuts in a small skillet over medium-low heat until they are lightly golden. You'll want to keep an eye on them as they're browning because they can burn very quickly.