Mozzarella Braid with Homemade Ham, Olives, and Cucumbers
Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 1 pound) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup homemade ham, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella, sliced ham, black olives, and cucumber. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roll out the dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to form a rectangle.
- Fill the dough: Spoon the filling onto the center of the dough, leaving some space around the edges. Gently cut diagonal strips along the sides of the dough.
- Braid the dough: Fold the strips over the filling in a crisscross pattern, creating a braid. Tuck in the ends to seal the braid.
- Transfer to baking sheet: Carefully transfer the braided dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with olive oil: Brush the top of the braid with olive oil, and sprinkle dried oregano on top for extra flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cool and slice: Allow the mozzarella braid to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the braid into portions and serve warm. It’s perfect for a festive appetizer or a delicious snack!
Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. Enjoy your mozzarella braid celebration! π§π₯
