grilling out

sunday was a beautiful day in midland, and we spent the day in the yard. brian was cleaning and mulching the flower beds, while i planted my wicker deck boxes. though it was a bit chilly by dinner time, it was perfect for a grilled meal. i had planned to make grilled pizzas with grilled vegetables.

earlier in the morning, i used ina garten's california pizza dough recipe and substituted one-half of the white flour with whole wheat flower. this dough is a sturdy dough that holds up well on the grill. the ingredients are simple: flour, salt, olive oil, and water. i use my kitchen aid mixer and the dough hook to knead the dough for 10 minutes until it is pliable. i use my oven light to help the dough rise for several hours. after the dough has risen, the dough is divided into several smaller size pizzas, rolled onto a sheet pan covered with corn meal. this also helps the dough from adhering to the grill.

i prepped the ingredients for the pizza toppings: mozzarella cheese, red pepper, red onions, pepperoni slices, tomato slices and tomato pieces, along with pizza herbs.

after the pizza dough grills on each side for one minute, we add the toppings and grill with the cover closed for about six to seven minutes. i usually finish up the pizzas in the oven indoors to make certain the chesse is melted and the toppings are crispy.

along with the pizzas, i served grilled vegetables: zucchini, red and green bell peppers, and large onion slices. i usually season these vegetables with garlic and herb seasoning, along with cracked black pepper.

this menu can be adapted from the pantry. pizzas or the grilled vegetables can be made with mushrooms, black and green olives, or a variety of cheeses. i have made this meal for years and each time is a new experience.