In my 30+ *coughcough* years, three things are definitely true about me: 1) I can procrastinate with the best of ‘em, 2) I’m a whinger, and 3) pizza can cure almost any complaint.
So, here I find myself traveling for the second week in a row, and still I waited until I’m literally in the car to be typing these words, grumpy that I didn’t do it sooner, and whiny about another long trek ahead; and yet, I’m already thinking about more pizza and drooling.
My recipe isn’t anything special. Betty Crocker’s homemade dough (doubled for the sheet pan recipe) because store-bought doesn’t cut it. Tomato paste instead of sauce because it’s heartier. Too much cheese because my mom’s Wisconsin roots were ingrained early. Toppings of onions, green peppers, and black olives because I like to pretend I am healthy, and because it’s a creature comfort when I order delivery. Basil and oregano because herbs make me feel classy.
But it’s the sort of recipe that I need when I feel extra whiny but also don’t hate myself enough to get fast food.
So, take this recipe as just Christinia’s comfort food, but make whatever pizza you need to get past your grumps or your pizza, booze, telly date night.
Here’s my pizza of zen recipe:
Ingredients
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1 small can tomato paste
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3 c. shredded mozzarella
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1 small can sliced black olives, drained
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1 medium onion, chopped or sliced depending on my mood
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1 green pepper, chopped or sliced depending on my mood
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1 T. dried basil
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1 T. dried oregano
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1 t. garlic powder, optional
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1 t. onion powder, optional
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Salt and pepper, optional and to taste
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Olive oil, for a light coat on the sheet pan
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Red pepper flakes, for serving, optional
Directions
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly coat a large sheet pan with olive oil.
Spread the pizza dough on the sheet pan. Top with the tomato paste. Sprinkle on the shredded cheese. Add olives, onions, and peppers. Sprinkle on the herbs and spices. I like to add another light spray of olive oil because I’m crazy but that’s totally optional.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the dough is cooked through and the cheese is lightly browned on top, and enjoy!