Lunch: Art Smith's Margherita Pizza with Easy Pizza Dough and Basic Tomato Sauce

Recipe by Art Smith When Chef Art Smith is cooking in his outdoor kitchen, all types of food can be found on his grill…even pizza! "I have great memories of spending time with people over pizza," Art says.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Art Smith's Margherita Pizza with Easy Pizza Dough and Basic Tomato Sauce

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1 c. warm water
2 tsp. active dry yeast
2 tsp. honey
1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil
3 1/2 c. all-purpose flour or multigrain flour
1 pinch kosher salt

Instructions

To make dough: In a food processor, combine the warm water, yeast, honey, and olive oil and mix well. Process until the yeast dissolves and the mixture is bubbly. Add the flour and pulse. Add a pinch of salt and pulse again. Run the food processor until the dough makes a ball.
Remove the dough, place it on a lightly floured surface, and knead for 2 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover well with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece needed into an 8- or 9-inch round. Tightly wrap the remaining pieces of pizza dough in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator or freezer for future use.
To make sauce: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. When hot, add the onion and slowly saute; while stirring, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and thyme and cook for another 6 minutes. In this recipe, we are not looking for color. Rather, we are slowly releasing the flavors of the ingredients by cooking them at a low temperature.
Add the brown sugar and stir until it is dissolved. Add the stewed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a low simmer. Be sure to stir often enough so that the bottom does not scorch. Cook for 20 minutes.
Add the oregano, rosemary, and basil and cook for 6 to 8 minutes more, adding salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce's texture is too rustic for your taste, puree the mixture in a blender until it reaches the desired consistency.
To make pizza: Place a pizza stone in lower third of oven and preheat to 440 degrees. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 9-inch round. Place on a lightly floured pizza peel or rimless baking sheet and top with the sauce, mozzarella, and basil.
Slide the pizza onto the hot stone and bake until crust is brown, about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and top with the prosciutto and arugula; season with pepper. Slice and serve immediately.

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