Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Balsamic Grilled BLT Avocado Pizza?
It is a gourmet fusion pizza that combines the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich with fresh avocado and greens atop a crispy grilled crust.
What are the main ingredients for the pizza dough?
The homemade dough is made using all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, salt, warm water, and extra virgin olive oil.
How long does the pizza dough need to rise?
The dough should rise in a warm area for approximately 2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Can I prepare the pizza dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
How should the bacon be prepared for the topping?
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is crispy, then drain it on paper towels and crumble it into small pieces.
What ingredients are in the avocado salad mixture?
The salad consists of halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a small amount of mayonnaise.
What type of cheese is used on this pizza?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
How do I grill the pizza dough?
Preheat the grill to high, shape the dough into disks, brush one side with olive oil, and grill that side for 3-4 minutes until it blisters before flipping.
When do I add the bacon and cheese?
After flipping the dough on the grill, add the shredded mozzarella and crumbled bacon to the grilled side.
How long does the pizza cook after adding toppings?
Once the cheese and bacon are added, lower the grill heat, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
What greens are recommended for the topping?
A combination of chopped lettuce and fresh arugula is used to provide a refreshing finish.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe makes two pizzas, each sliced into 6 wedges, providing a total of 12 slices.
What is the recommended water temperature for the yeast?
The warm water should be between 100 degrees Fahrenheit and 110 degrees Fahrenheit to properly activate the yeast.
Do I need a food processor to make the dough?
A food processor can be used, but a mixing bowl fitted with a dough hook also works perfectly.
How long should I knead the dough?
Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and forms a ball.
What should I do after the dough has risen?
Gently punch the dough down and let it rest for about 15 minutes before shaping.
What size should the pizza dough disks be?
Each portion of dough should be shaped into a round disk approximately the size of a dinner plate.
Should I grill both sides of the dough?
Yes, you grill the first side until it blisters, flip it, then add toppings and grill the second side.
Is the avocado salad grilled?
No, the avocado and tomato salad mixture is added fresh to the pizza after it has been removed from the grill.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.
Can I use different types of greens?
Yes, feel free to use lettuce, arugula, or any other fresh greens you prefer.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice?
The lemon juice is used in the salad mixture to add brightness and help keep the avocado fresh.
How much mayonnaise is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 teaspoons of mayonnaise to dress the avocado and tomato salad.
Can I customize this pizza?
Absolutely! You can customize the pizza with any leftovers or additional toppings you have on hand.
What temperature should the grill be set to initially?
The grill should be preheated to high for the initial searing of the dough.
How many slices of bacon are needed?
The recipe requires 10 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled.
What type of salt is best for the dough?
You can use either sea salt or table salt for the dough and seasoning.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
While the dough takes time to rise, the actual grilling and assembly process is very quick, making it a great gourmet meal.
When should the pizza be served?
The pizza is best served immediately after the fresh salad toppings are added to enjoy the contrast of hot and cold.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is a family-friendly recipe that is perfect for picnics or quick weeknight dinners.