The Pizza Quattro Stagioni, meaning “Four Seasons,” is a classic Italian pizza that beautifully represents the variety of flavors found throughout the year. Traditionally divided into four sections, each part features toppings that symbolize a different season: artichokes for spring, olives for summer, mushrooms for autumn, and ham or prosciutto for winter. With its colorful presentation and rich taste, this pizza is both visually stunning and deeply flavorful.
Ingredient
For the Base:
| Pizza Dough (12-inch round) | 1 lb (450g) |
|---|---|
| Simple Tomato Sauce | ½ cup (120ml) |
| Fresh Mozzarella (cubed or torn) | 6 ounces (170g) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For final drizzle |
| Marinated Artichoke Hearts | ¼ cup (drained) |
|---|---|
| Smoked Turkey Breast, sliced | ¼ cup (cubed) |
| Black Olives | ¼ cup (pitted & sliced) |
| Sliced Mushrooms | ¼ cup |
| Hard-Boiled Egg | 1 (sliced) |
| Dried Oregano | A pinch |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dough
- Place a pizza stone or steel on the middle rack. Preheat the oven to its highest setting (500°F/260°C or higher) for at least 30 minutes.
- Stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer it to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with flour or cornmeal.
- Pat all wet toppings (artichokes, olives) dry to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Step 2: Create the Quadrants
- Spread the simple tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Evenly distribute the fresh mozzarella over the entire pizza.
- Now, divide the pizza visually into four sections (quadrants) and apply the toppings carefully, keeping them separated:
- Quadrant 1 (Spring): Place the artichoke hearts.
- Quadrant 2 (Summer): Place the smoked turkey breast cubes and black olives.
- Quadrant 3 (Autumn): Place the sliced mushrooms.
- Quadrant 4 (Winter): Place the sliced hard-boiled egg (and sprinkle lightly with oregano).
Step 3: Bake and Finish
- Drizzle the pizza lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
- Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone/steel.
- Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven, slice into four large wedges (one for each season), and serve immediately.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Quattro Stagioni
- Drainage: It is critical to thoroughly drain and pat dry any toppings that hold a lot of water (like artichokes or mushrooms) to ensure a crispy crust.
- Uniformity: Try to cut all toppings into roughly the same size so they cook evenly at the high temperature.
- Herb Finish: For an authentic touch, you can add a few fresh basil leaves to the Summer (smoked turkey/olive) quadrant after baking.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per 1/4 of a pizza)
| Calories | 400-600 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 20-30 grams |
| Fat | 15-30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-60 grams |
| Fiber | 4-6 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Diverse Flavors in One Pizza: Offers a unique combination of ingredients in every slice.
- ✅ Nutrient-Rich: Includes vegetables, protein, and healthy fats for a balanced meal.
- ✅ Customizable: Toppings can be adjusted to match seasonal produce or personal preference.
- ✅ Cultural Classic: Reflects Italian creativity and culinary tradition.
- ✅ Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings where everyone enjoys different toppings.
The Pizza Quattro Stagioni is more than just a pizza—it’s a culinary journey through the four seasons of Italy. With its variety of toppings and vibrant flavors, it offers something for everyone while staying true to authentic Italian tradition. Whether baked in a wood-fired oven or prepared at home, this pizza guarantees a colorful and satisfying experience in every bite.