Italian Party Bread

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. 2

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick, allowing it to rest occasionally if it springs back. Spread pesto across the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges, then layer with provolone, prosciutto, and banana peppers.

3. 3

   Roll the dough tightly along the longer axis so the seam sits on the bottom. Press down gently to flatten slightly, dust the top with flour, and use a pizza wheel to slice the roll lengthwise into 3 equal strips.

4. 4

   Arrange the three strips side by side without touching — center strip cut-side up, outer two strips cut-sides facing inward. Braid them together, then shape into a round wreath by bringing the ends together and tucking them underneath. Lift onto the prepared baking sheet.

5. 5

   Bake until deep golden brown, approximately 30 minutes. Allow to cool briefly before serving warm or at room temperature.