Pesto pizza is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional pizza, featuring a base of pesto sauce instead of the classic tomato sauce. Pesto, a blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, provides a fresh and vibrant flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. This article explores the best toppings to complement pesto pizza, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
See Also: What Goes Good with Pepperoni on Pizza?
Understanding Pesto Pizza
What Is Pesto Pizza?
Pesto pizza replaces the usual tomato sauce with pesto sauce, a green, herbaceous condiment made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The result is a pizza with a distinct, herby flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
The Base Ingredients
Pesto Sauce: The primary sauce on pesto pizza, providing a fresh, herby, and nutty flavor.
Cheese: Typically, mozzarella is used for its meltability and mild flavor, though other cheeses can be used for variation.
Classic Toppings for Pesto Pizza
1. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a classic topping for pesto pizza. Their concentrated, sweet-tart flavor complements the herbaceous pesto sauce. The chewiness of the sun-dried tomatoes adds texture to the pizza, creating a satisfying contrast to the smooth pesto and melted cheese.
2. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken adds a savory, protein-rich element to pesto pizza. The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs well with the fresh, herby pesto, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Chicken can be seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance its flavor and match the pizza’s profile.
3. Artichoke Hearts
Artichoke hearts offer a tender, slightly tangy flavor that complements the pesto sauce. They add a unique texture and a touch of acidity, which helps to balance the richness of the pesto and cheese. Artichoke hearts can be used whole or chopped, depending on personal preference.
4. Pine Nuts
Pine nuts, a key ingredient in pesto sauce, can also be used as a topping. Toasted pine nuts add a nutty crunch that enhances the flavor profile of the pizza. Their subtle sweetness and rich texture work well with the other ingredients.
5. Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers bring a sweet and smoky flavor to pesto pizza. Their tender texture and vibrant color add visual appeal and a burst of flavor. Roasting the peppers beforehand intensifies their sweetness and enhances their overall taste.
Gourmet Toppings for Pesto Pizza
1. Prosciutto
Prosciutto, a type of Italian dry-cured ham, adds a savory and slightly salty element to pesto pizza. Its thin, delicate slices melt slightly when baked, adding a rich, meaty flavor that complements the fresh pesto. Prosciutto pairs well with other gourmet toppings like arugula or Parmesan.
2. Goat Cheese
Goat cheese offers a tangy and creamy contrast to the herby pesto sauce. Its rich, smooth texture melts beautifully and adds depth to the pizza’s flavor. Goat cheese can be crumbled over the pizza or added in dollops for a more rustic presentation.
3. Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory flavor that pairs well with the pesto sauce. The slow-cooking process brings out the natural sugars in the onions, creating a deep, rich flavor that adds complexity to the pizza. Caramelized onions also add a slightly chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy crust.
4. Sliced Mushrooms
Sliced mushrooms, whether button, cremini, or portobello, add an earthy flavor that complements the pesto. Their umami richness enhances the overall taste of the pizza, and they become tender and flavorful when baked. Mushrooms also contribute a pleasant texture to the pizza.
5. Arugula
Arugula, a peppery green, adds a fresh and slightly spicy flavor to pesto pizza. It can be added either before baking for a slightly wilted texture or after baking for a crisp, vibrant topping. Arugula pairs well with other ingredients like prosciutto and Parmesan.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
1. Bell Peppers
Bell peppers add a sweet crunch to pesto pizza. They come in various colors, including red, yellow, and green, each offering a slightly different flavor profile. Bell peppers can be sliced and added raw or roasted for a more intense flavor.
2. Olives
Olives provide a briny, savory kick to pesto pizza. Black olives or Kalamata olives are popular choices, adding a salty depth that complements the pesto sauce. They can be sliced or chopped and sprinkled over the pizza before baking.
3. Spinach
Spinach is a versatile green that adds a mild, fresh flavor to pesto pizza. It can be added fresh for a slightly wilted texture or sautéed for a more intense flavor. Spinach pairs well with other toppings like mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Vegan Cheese
For those following a vegan diet, there are various plant-based cheese alternatives available. Vegan cheeses made from nuts, soy, or coconut can provide a similar creamy texture to traditional cheese while complementing the pesto sauce.
Seasonal and Regional Variations
1. Fresh Tomatoes
In the summer, fresh tomatoes can be a great addition to pesto pizza. Their juicy, sweet flavor enhances the freshness of the pesto sauce. Tomatoes can be sliced or cherry tomatoes can be halved and scattered over the pizza.
2. Zucchini
Zucchini, especially when sliced thin and roasted, adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor to pesto pizza. It pairs well with other summer vegetables and provides a tender texture that complements the pesto sauce.
3. Seasonal Herbs
Adding seasonal herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, can enhance the flavor profile of pesto pizza. Fresh herbs added after baking can provide a burst of aromatic flavor and a touch of freshness.
How to Combine Toppings
1. Balancing Flavors
When choosing toppings for pesto pizza, it’s important to balance flavors. The pesto sauce is herbaceous and rich, so complementing it with ingredients that offer contrasting tastes or textures can create a well-rounded pizza. For example, pairing the richness of pesto with the acidity of sun-dried tomatoes or the sweetness of caramelized onions can enhance the overall flavor.
2. Layering Ingredients
Layering toppings strategically can affect the texture and flavor distribution of the pizza. For instance, placing ingredients like mushrooms or onions directly on the pizza before baking allows them to meld with the sauce and cheese. Adding delicate toppings like arugula or goat cheese after baking preserves their texture and flavor.
3. Combining Toppings
Combining different types of toppings can create a more complex flavor profile. For example, pairing grilled chicken with roasted red peppers and goat cheese can offer a combination of savory, sweet, and creamy elements. Experimenting with different combinations can help find the perfect mix for your taste preferences.
Making Your Own Pesto Pizza
1. Homemade Pesto Sauce
Making your own pesto sauce allows for customization and control over the ingredients. Traditional pesto is made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, but variations can include different herbs or nuts. Homemade pesto can be adjusted to taste, making it a perfect base for your pizza.
2. Preparing the Dough
Homemade pizza dough can enhance the overall quality of the pizza. A basic pizza dough recipe includes flour, water, yeast, and olive oil. Allowing the dough to rise properly and stretch it to the desired size ensures a good base for the pesto and toppings.
3. Assembling the Pizza
To assemble your pesto pizza, spread a generous layer of pesto sauce over the dough. Add your chosen toppings, being mindful of their cooking times and textures. Bake the pizza at a high temperature, typically around 475°F (245°C), for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Conclusion
Pesto pizza offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, with its vibrant and herby flavor profile. By choosing complementary toppings, you can enhance the pesto’s freshness and create a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer classic options like sun-dried tomatoes and grilled chicken or gourmet additions like prosciutto and goat cheese, there are countless ways to customize your pesto pizza to suit your taste.
Experimenting with different toppings and combinations allows for endless creativity and personalization. From vegetarian and vegan options to seasonal ingredients, there is a wide range of choices to explore. By understanding how to balance flavors and layer ingredients, you can create a pesto pizza that is both flavorful and visually appealing.
Whether you’re making pesto pizza at home or ordering from a pizzeria, considering the various topping options can help you craft a pizza that perfectly matches your preferences. Enjoy the process of experimenting and savoring the unique flavors that pesto pizza has to offer.