Pizza Quattro Stagioni, or Four Seasons Pizza, is a beloved classic from Italy that beautifully showcases variety and creativity. This pizza is divided into four distinct sections, each representing a different season of the year with its own unique topping: artichokes, mushrooms, ham (prosciutto cotto), and black olives. Baked atop a crisp crust with tomato sauce and mozzarella, it’s a celebration of both Italian tradition and the bounty of the seasons.
The Origins of Pizza Quattro Stagioni
Pizza Quattro Stagioni originated in Italy as a way to highlight the country’s rich seasonal produce and diverse flavors. Each quarter of the pizza is topped with ingredients that symbolize spring (artichokes), summer (olives), autumn (mushrooms), and winter (ham or prosciutto cotto). This approach not only makes the pizza visually striking but also allows diners to enjoy a variety of flavors in every slice. The pizza’s popularity spread quickly, and today it’s a staple in pizzerias across Italy and around the world.
Ingredients
For one large pizza:
1 ball of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup tomato passata or high-quality tomato sauce
8 oz (225g) mozzarella, sliced or shredded
4–6 marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
4–6 button mushrooms, thinly sliced (sautéed if desired)
4 slices prosciutto cotto (Italian cooked ham)
1/4 cup pitted black olives, halved
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Stretch or roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Place on a pizza stone or baking tray dusted with semolina or flour.
2. Add the Sauce and Cheese
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1 cm border for the crust.
Scatter the mozzarella evenly across the pizza.
3. Arrange the Toppings
Visually divide the pizza into four quarters.
Spring: Top one quarter with artichoke hearts.
Summer: Top one quarter with black olives.
Autumn: Top one quarter with sliced mushrooms.
Winter: Top one quarter with prosciutto cotto.
Season with a little salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
Slice so that each piece includes a bit of every topping, or serve in quarters for the full seasonal effect.
Why Pizza Quattro Stagioni Is Special
Pizza Quattro Stagioni isn’t just delicious—it’s a celebration of Italy’s seasons and a showcase for classic Italian ingredients. Its four-section design makes it perfect for sharing, offering something for everyone at the table. Whether you’re a fan of earthy mushrooms, savory ham, briny olives, or tender artichokes, this pizza delivers a taste of every season in every bite.
