Spumoni Gardens in Long Beach has been a local favorite for decades, known for its iconic pizza that blends classic flavors with a unique twist. This pizza recipe captures the essence of their famous pie, bringing a taste of Southern California right to our kitchens. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this delicious slice, you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.
We’ve perfected this recipe to match the original’s crispy crust, savory sauce, and generous toppings. It’s the kind of pizza that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into making our own Lb Spumoni Gardens pizza and enjoy a slice of tradition with every bite.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza, we need to carefully select fresh and quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the signature taste and texture that define this iconic Southern California pizza.
Dough Ingredients
We start with the foundation—a crisp yet tender pizza dough. The following ingredients ensure a perfectly balanced crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups | Preferably bread flour |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons | One packet |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups | About 110°F for yeast activation |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon | Helps yeast bloom |
| Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons | For balanced flavor |
Sauce Ingredients
Next, the savory sauce blends fresh and aromatic elements to complement the crust and toppings. We use:
- 1 can (15 ounces) of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, rich and naturally sweet
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced for robust flavor
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, to sauté the garlic before mixing
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, key to classic Italian sauce
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, for a subtle heat
- Salt to taste, enhancing natural tomato sweetness
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, to finish and brighten
Cheese and Toppings Ingredients
Our Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza stands out with its generous layering of cheese and toppings that create a perfect harmony of flavors:
- 3 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese, providing creamy meltiness
- ½ cup grated Parmesan, for sharp depth
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni, adding savory spice
- ½ cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled for hearty richness
- ½ cup sliced green bell peppers, giving a fresh crunch
- ½ cup sliced black olives, for subtle briny notes
- ¼ cup sliced red onion, balancing sweetness and bite
Each ingredient brings distinct texture and flavor, making this pizza a memorable crowd-pleaser.
Equipment Needed
To recreate the Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza at home with precision and ease, having the right equipment is crucial. Each tool helps us replicate the authentic texture and flavor that make this pizza stand out.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Pizza Dough and Assembly
- Mixing Bowl: A large, sturdy bowl for combining and kneading the dough.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of flour, yeast, salt, and water.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional): Makes kneading easier and more consistent.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly to the desired thickness.
- Pizza Peel or Large Spatula: For transferring the pizza to and from the oven safely.
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: Use a preheated pizza stone for a crispier crust. A heavy-duty baking sheet also works well.
- Oven Thermometer: Ensures our oven reaches the optimal high temperature critical for a perfect bake.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: To slice the pizza into even, clean pieces.
Equipment for Sauce and Toppings Preparation
- Blender or Food Processor: To puree the San Marzano tomatoes into a smooth sauce.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: For chopping toppings like green bell peppers and pepperoni with precision.
- Small Saucepan: To simmer the sauce gently and develop flavors.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Dough preparation and kneading |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| Stand Mixer (optional) | Efficient dough kneading |
| Rolling Pin | Evenly spreading dough |
| Pizza Peel/Spatula | Safe pizza handling |
| Baking Sheet/Pizza Stone | Baking surface for crust |
| Oven Thermometer | Temperature accuracy |
| Sharp Knife/Pizza Cutter | Topping prep and pizza slicing |
| Blender/Food Processor | Smoothing tomato sauce |
| Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife | Topping chopping |
| Small Saucepan | Cooking sauce |
Equipping our kitchen with these tools sets the stage for creating a delicious, restaurant-quality Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza. We find that investing in precision and reliability here elevates every step from dough to final slice.
Prep Work
Before we assemble our Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza, thorough preparation sets the foundation for authenticity and flavor. Let’s break down each crucial step to get our dough, sauce, and toppings ready efficiently.
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) of active dry yeast with 1 ½ cups of warm water (105°F to 110°F). Stir gently and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Combine yeast mixture: Slowly add the yeast-water mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or using the stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed.
- Add olive oil: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to enrich the dough.
- Knead: Knead the dough on a floured surface or with the mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) | Bloom in warm water |
| Warm water | 1 ½ cups (105-110°F) | Ideal temperature for yeast |
| Bread flour | 4 cups | Provides crisp crust |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | Feeds yeast |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons | Balances flavor |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Adds tenderness |
Preparing the Sauce
- Blend tomatoes: Use a blender or food processor to pulse 1 can (28 ounces) of San Marzano tomatoes until smooth but still slightly chunky.
- Cook aromatics: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer sauce: Add the blended tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Taste and adjust: Add a pinch of sugar if acidity needs balancing. Remove from heat and let cool before spreading on dough.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| San Marzano tomatoes | 28 oz (1 can) | Classic pizza sauce base |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing garlic |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced | Adds depth of flavor |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Signature Italian herb |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Enhances aroma |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
Preparing the Toppings
- Slice vegetables: Thinly slice 1 green bell pepper and 1 small onion on a cutting board. Keep slices uniform for even cooking.
- Prepare pepperoni: Use 1 cup of thinly sliced pepperoni. If using whole slices, separate before placing on pizza to distribute evenly.
- Shred cheese: Shred 3 cups of whole milk mozzarella to ensure even melting and stretchiness.
- Optional extras: If desired, slice mushrooms or olives thinly, making sure all toppings are ready before assembly.
Organized prep of all ingredients ensures a smooth baking process and replicates the iconic Spumoni Gardens Pizza flavor and texture perfectly.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to craft the Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza with authentic flavors and textures that bring Southern California’s iconic pizza right to your kitchen.
Making the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast with 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F). Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, blend 4 cups bread flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Slowly pour the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil into the flour mixture.
- Knead the Dough: Knead by hand or with the dough hook attachment for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Creating the Sauce
- Prepare Tomatoes: In a blender or food processor, pulse 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Cook Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Add tomato puree, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar to the saucepan. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cool: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using.
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch it into a 12-inch round.
- Transfer to Peel: Place the dough on a lightly floured pizza peel or parchment paper.
- Add Sauce: Spread ½ cup of the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Layer Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce.
- Top with Toppings: Add ¼ cup sliced pepperoni, ½ cup sliced green bell peppers, and any additional toppings desired.
- Drizzle: Lightly drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the top for extra crispness.
Baking Instructions
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | 475°F | 30 minutes | Ensure stone or baking sheet is thoroughly hot |
| Bake Pizza | 475°F | 12-15 minutes | Rotate halfway for even browning |
| Check Doneness | — | — | Crust should be golden and cheese bubbly |
- Bake: Slide the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is crisp and golden brown.
- Monitor: Rotate the pizza halfway through baking for uniform color and texture.
- Remove & Rest: Use the peel to remove the pizza and let it cool 3-5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy your richly flavored, crispy-crusted Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance our experience of the Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza, we suggest pairing it with complementary sides and beverages that highlight its rich flavors.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, parmesan shavings, and crunchy croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the pizza’s savory profile.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks topped with garlic and parmesan elevate indulgence and offer a perfect dip companion.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers introduces a variety of textures and tastes that echo the pizza’s Italian roots.
Ideal Beverage Pairings
| Beverage Type | Description | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Red Wine | Chianti or Sangiovese | Bright acidity cuts through the cheese and complements tomato sauce flavors. |
| Craft Beer | Crisp Lager or IPA | Refreshes the palate between rich bites with balanced hoppiness. |
| Sparkling Water | Lemon or Lime infused | Adds effervescence and light citrus notes that cleanse the palate. |
Serving Tips
- Slice the pizza into generous wedges to showcase its crispy, golden crust and melted mozzarella.
- Serve immediately while the cheese bubbles and the crust retains its perfect crunch.
- Offer freshly grated parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes on the side for guests to customize their slices.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the full Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza experience with less stress, we recommend preparing certain elements in advance. This approach lets us focus on assembly and baking when the moment calls for it. Here are the key make-ahead strategies to keep in mind:
Prepare and Refrigerate the Dough
After kneading the dough, allow it to rise until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours at room temperature. Then, punch it down, shape it into a ball, and place it in a lightly oiled container. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Refrigerating slows fermentation giving the dough a richer flavor and improving texture. Bring dough to room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling out for the best elasticity.
Make Sauce in Advance
The signature tomato sauce benefits from sitting time for the flavors to meld. Prepare the sauce fully by blending and simmering the San Marzano tomatoes with aromatics as detailed in the recipe.
Store sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Warm slightly before spreading on dough.
Prep Toppings Early
Slicing vegetables and shredding cheese can be done the day before. Store toppings in separate covered containers or zip-top bags. Keep moisture-heavy items like bell peppers dry by patting with paper towels before refrigerating.
This step streamlines assembly so we can build the pizza quickly without last-minute chopping.
Summary Table of Make-Ahead Components
| Component | Method | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Refrigerate after rising | Up to 24 hours | Bring to room temp before use |
| Sauce | Cook and cool | 3 days refrigerated | Freeze up to 1 month |
| Vegetables | Slice and dry | 1-2 days refrigerated | Keep moist veggies dry |
| Cheese | Shred and store | 2-3 days refrigerated | Store airtight to prevent drying |
Pro Tip: Label each container with the preparation date to maintain freshness and ensure safety.
By following these make-ahead tips, we make the pizza day relaxed and fun, delivering the perfect Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza every time without the rush.
Storage and Leftover Advice
Proper storage is essential to preserve the freshness and flavor of our Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza. Here’s how we recommend handling leftovers to enjoy that iconic taste even after the first serving.
Cooling and Storing Leftovers
- Let the pizza cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes before storing. This prevents condensation which can make the crust soggy.
- Slice the pizza into individual portions for easy handling and reheating.
- Store slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated within 2 hours of baking.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Refrigerated Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza will stay good for up to 3-4 days. To maintain quality:
- Place slices in a single layer to avoid sticking.
- Use airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to prevent moisture loss.
- Label leftovers with the date to monitor freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days | Use airtight containers |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly with foil and plastic |
Freezing Leftovers
If we want to store the pizza longer:
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped slices into freezer-safe bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months to retain flavor and texture.
- Thaw frozen pizza in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To revive that crispy crust and melty cheese:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place slices on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Heat for 8-10 minutes until cheese bubbles and crust crisps.
- Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, covering loosely to melt cheese.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and chewy.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or a drizzle of olive oil before reheating for an extra burst of freshness.
By following these storage and leftover tips, we keep the authentic taste of our Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza vibrant and delicious for every slice we enjoy.
Conclusion
Making Lb Spumoni Gardens Pizza at home lets us bring a slice of Long Beach tradition right to our kitchen. With the right ingredients, tools, and steps, we can capture that perfect balance of crispy crust and savory toppings every time.
Taking the time to prep ahead and store leftovers properly means we get to enjoy this delicious pizza without the stress. Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers a memorable and satisfying experience that’s sure to become a favorite in our home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Spumoni Gardens pizza unique?
Spumoni Gardens pizza is unique for its crispy crust, savory San Marzano tomato sauce, and generous toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, and green bell peppers. It combines traditional and distinctive flavors to create a memorable Southern California pizza experience.
What ingredients are essential for making Spumoni Gardens pizza dough?
Key ingredients for the dough include bread flour, active yeast, warm water, salt, and olive oil. Using bread flour helps achieve a crispy and chewy crust typical of Spumoni Gardens pizza.
How do I prepare the authentic Spumoni Gardens pizza sauce?
The sauce is made by blending San Marzano tomatoes with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, then simmering until thick. This process develops a rich, flavorful base for the pizza.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this pizza at home?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, measuring cups, stand mixer or hand mixer, rolling pin, pizza peel, blender or food processor, cutting board, and small saucepan for sauce preparation.
How do I properly bake Spumoni Gardens pizza?
Bake the pizza at a high temperature (around 475°F) on a preheated pizza stone or steel. Monitor baking to ensure a golden crust and bubbly melted cheese, usually for 12-15 minutes.
Can I prepare parts of the pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after rising, make the sauce in advance to enhance flavor, and prep toppings like slicing vegetables and shredding cheese to simplify assembly later.
How should I store leftover Spumoni Gardens pizza?
Allow pizza to cool for about 20 minutes, then store in airtight containers or tightly wrapped in plastic. Refrigerated pizza lasts 3-4 days; freeze slices for up to 2 months for longer storage.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
Reheat pizza in a hot oven or a skillet to maintain a crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and reduce flavor quality.
What side dishes pair well with Spumoni Gardens pizza?
Classic Caesar salad, garlic parmesan breadsticks, and an antipasto platter complement the pizza’s rich flavors and add refreshing contrast to the meal.
What beverages are recommended with Spumoni Gardens pizza?
Italian red wine, craft beer, and sparkling water are ideal pairings that enhance the savory and robust flavors of the pizza.