Pizza With Artichokes, Rosemary and Goat Cheese

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Make the pizza dough. Combine the yeast with one-quarter cup of the water. Cover and leave until doubled in volume. If the mixture does not rise, throw it away and use a fresh package of yeast.

2. Step 2

   If working by hand, combine the flour and salt and place on a smooth work surface. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, two tablespoons olive oil and the remaining water. Gradually work the flour into the liquid using a wooden spoon. Knead until smooth and shiny, about eight to 10 minutes. Add more flour if the dough gets too sticky. If using a food processor, fit the bowl with a steel blade and put the flour, salt, two tablespoons olive oil, yeast mixture and remaining water into the bowl. Process until the dough forms a smooth ball, about 20 seconds. Place the dough on a smooth surface and knead for a couple of minutes, adding more flour if the dough is too sticky.

3. Step 3

   Put the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for one hour, until doubled. Punch down and knead into a smooth ball. Let rise again for one hour. Freeze half the dough for a second pizza.

4. Step 4

   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

5. Step 5

   Trim the artichokes, cut them in half and saute until golden in the remaining olive oil. Remove from the frying pan.

6. Step 6

   Saute the garlic, onions and rosemary until the onions are soft. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

7. Step 7

   Spread the dough with the onion mixture. Top with the artichokes and sprinkle with the goat cheese and pine nuts. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pizza is browned and crisp.