There's a saying that goes, "Reheated soup is never good." Those familiar with it know it's not used in cooking, and the reason is easy to explain: if we're talking about baked pasta, for example, can we say that it might even taste better the next day?! Yes, and that's why this proverb applies to problems of the heart and not in the kitchen.
And speaking of reheated foods, even pizza can be delicious again the next day… if you know how. The Coppola Brothers, a restaurant chain founded by three Neapolitan brothers, come to our aid by explaining what to do (and what not to do) if you have leftover pizza.
The "Pizza of The Day After"
Homemade pizza or takeout? It makes no difference. Both can easily be reheated and enjoyed again. And it's not just a matter of gluttony, but also of waste: at a time when this phenomenon seems unstoppable, it's important to contribute in our own small way with gestures that can save the environment and, of course, food. Today, it's estimated that only 45% of Americans ask for a doggy bag after a meal (or so they say): a practice that unfortunately is still the preserve of a few, but which should become a (healthy) habit and be encouraged by all restaurateurs. This is exactly what the Coppola Brothers do in their restaurants, and for this reason, on World Environment Day, they've proposed a few simple rules to follow so you can enjoy pizza the day after, or even months later.
Don't Keep it in The Box
Whether you ordered takeout or ate it at a pizzeria and then brought it home, it's best not to leave it in the cardboard box: this is because the pizza, in contact with the cardboard, can become moist, risking altering the flavor. So, if you want to preserve it, divide it into portions, place it in an airtight container or in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and refrigerate it to preserve its flavor for a long time.
Pan, Oven or Microwave: How to Heat It
The first two are excellent, but the last one is best avoided. According to the Coppola brothers, for optimal results, the pizza should be reheated in a nonstick pan over low heat, covered with a lid. For the oven, however, 6-8 minutes at 180°C (350°F) will suffice, adding a hint of crispiness to the dough. Avoid the microwave, however, as it could make your pizza rubbery and affect the flavor.
Add New Ingredients
To give pizza a fresh twist, what's better than using fresh ingredients? Basil, oregano, grated cheese, cherry tomatoes, burrata, cured meats… you're spoiled for choice. Unleash your creativity.
Give New Life to Your Pizza
We're sure to surprise you here: if you have leftover pizza, make a frittata with it. Yes, you read that right, like a pasta frittata, but with pizza: just cut it into pieces, add beaten eggs, mix everything together, and cook it in a pan until perfectly golden. With a leftover pizza without toppings, you could also create delicious tortillas to serve with classic ingredients like chicken, avocado, and yogurt.
Eat it Even Months Later
We talked before about preserving pizza for months, but how? By freezing it, of course. Divide it into individual portions and place them in the freezer, taking them out when you're ready, making sure to follow the cooking tips above, to enjoy a delicious pizza (again).
An Extra Tip
There are very few people these days who don't have an air fryer in their kitchen: and did you know you can use it to reheat your pizza? Preheat it to 320°F/160°C and arrange the slices in the basket, without overlapping them. As for the cooking time, this will vary based on the thickness: 3-4 minutes for thinner ones, 5-6 for thicker ones.
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