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lebanese pizza

Lebanese Pizza Recipe

Rebecca Blumer
Whip up classic Lebanese Pizza with our foolproof recipe. Enjoy bold za'atar and extra fresh toppings for a satisfying meal!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Lebanese, Middle Eastern
Servings 4 Slices
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water around 110°F/43°C
  • 1 packet 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup za'atar spice mix
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
  • Optional: 1 cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: 1 cup minced lamb or beef lightly cooked
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 medium tomato thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley leaves roughly chopped

For Garnish and Serving:

  • Lemon wedges
  • A drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce optional
  • Additional extra virgin olive oil for finishing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the extra virgin olive oil.
  • Form the Dough: Stir the ingredients with a spoon until they come together. Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  • Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rest in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats. Otherwise, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures a crisp base and evenly cooked toppings.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping Mixture

  • Mix Za'atar and Olive Oil: In a bowl, combine the za'atar spice mix with 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Stir until you get a smooth, spreadable paste. This blend is key to the dish and delivers the signature Lebanese flavor.
  • Optional Meat Preparation: If you choose to add meat, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly cook the minced lamb or beef with a pinch of salt and black pepper until it is browned and crumbly. Set the cooked meat aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

  • Shape the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently deflate it on a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts for two pizzas or keep it whole for a larger one. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch the dough into a thin, round shape. Aim for a uniform thickness so that the dough cooks evenly.
  • Apply the Topping: Spread the za'atar and olive oil mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edge. If you like cheese, sprinkle crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella on top. Add the cooked minced meat if using. Arrange thin slices of red onion and tomato over the spread. The vegetables add color and a fresh flavor that complements the herbs.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

  • Place the assembled pizza on the preheated pizza stone or prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes to ensure the crust turns a pleasant golden brown and the toppings are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your dough.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before adding fresh chopped parsley over the top. Squeeze a little lemon juice if you enjoy a citrus note, and drizzle a bit more extra virgin olive oil if desired. Cut the pizza into slices and serve warm. You can enjoy it as a snack, lunch, or dinner.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: ~280 kcal
  • Total Fat: ~10 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~2 g
  • Protein: ~8 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~38 g
  • Fiber: ~3 g
  • Sugars: ~2 g
  • Sodium: ~450 mg
 
Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.