Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 Cuban bread loaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Cut the Cuban bread loaf in half lengthwise and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with the minced garlic.
5. Top the bread with the mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Slice and serve.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 4-6
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the Cuban bread, you can substitute French bread or Italian bread.
- For the olive oil, you can substitute vegetable oil or melted butter.
- For the mozzarella cheese, you can substitute cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, or bacon for a meaty version.
- Add cooked vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Add different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier crust, brush the bread with olive oil before baking.
- For a cheesy crust, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or in the microwave.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pizza slices on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Garnishes:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Pairings:
This pizza pairs well with a crisp green salad or a bowl of soup.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the crust is not crispy enough, bake for a few minutes longer.
Food Safety Advice:
Always store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.
Food History:
Cuban bread is a type of white bread that is popular in Cuba and other Latin American countries. It is typically made with a combination of all-purpose flour, wheat flour, and cornmeal.
Flavor Profiles:
This pizza has a combination of savory and salty flavors from the cheese, tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of sour cream or guacamole for a creamy contrast.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A