Pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and bell peppers are staples that most of us have enjoyed countless times. But the idea of strawberries on pizza might seem unusual, especially when we’re not talking about a dessert. However, strawberries can make a surprisingly delicious pizza topping, and if you have fresh berries in your fridge, here’s why you should give them a try.
For your next homemade pizza, consider using strawberries, as suggested by Tasting Table recipe developer Tess Le Moing. She explains that strawberries and tomatoes, though an unexpected pair, are often in season at the same time, making them a great combination. Both are fruits, so they bring a natural sweetness to the dish. Strawberries offer a mild tartness, while tomatoes provide a bright acidity, balancing each other well.
Le Moing recommends using fresh strawberries and cherry tomatoes from the farmer’s market when they’re in season for the best flavor. While cherry tomatoes are a perfect size for pizza, there are other options if they’re not available. A guide to 15 types of tomatoes can help you find the best alternative to pair with strawberries.
How to Add Strawberries to Your Pizza
To make a pizza with strawberries, start by selecting fresh, ripe fruit. If you don’t have any at home, use simple tips to pick the best ones. The recipe calls for a large strawberry and three cherry tomatoes, but you can adjust the quantities if you’re making a bigger pizza. Remove the leaves from the strawberries and the stems from the tomatoes before slicing them into rounds. There’s no need to pre-cook the fruit, as it will roast in the oven with the pizza.
To enhance the flavors, Le Moing suggests adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil, along with fresh basil. But you can also experiment with other options. If you prefer a more savory pizza, swap the strawberry jam for tomato sauce. Adding cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or mozzarella can also elevate the dish. For a bit of heat, sprinkle red chili flakes or drizzle hot honey. For crunch, try adding walnuts or red onions before serving your strawberry and tomato pizza.
Incorporating strawberries into your pizza might seem unconventional, but with the right pairings, it can turn out to be a delightful surprise.
