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The Ultimate Pesto Pizza

A delicious homemade pesto pizza featuring fresh basil, rich cheeses, and a crispy crust, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Kosher Salt (for seasoning)
  • 1 Garlic Clove
  • 2 Cups Tightly Packed Basil Leaves (about 3 oz)
  • 1/4 Cup Toasted Pine Nuts
  • 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 oz Grated Parmesan (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/2 Recipe Artisan Pizza Dough (one 15 oz dough ball)
  • 1/4 Cup Pesto
  • 1 1/2 oz Shredded Parmesan
  • 3 oz Fresh Mozzarella, Torn into Small Pieces
  • 2 oz Fresh Goat Cheese

Instructions

  1. Make your dough (if homemade): Mix together flour, water, yeast, and salt, and let it rise until doubled in size (about 60-90 minutes). If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temp for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine garlic, basil leaves, pine nuts, olive oil, black pepper, and Parmesan. Pulse until smooth.
  3. Preheat your oven: Set to 475°F to 500°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
  4. Shape the pizza: Turn out your dough onto a floured surface and stretch it to about 12 inches in diameter.
  5. Add the pesto: Spread 1/4 cup of pesto over the stretched dough, leaving room at the edges.
  6. Layer the cheeses: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan, arrange mozzarella pieces, and dollop fresh goat cheese.
  7. Season to taste: Add a sprinkle of salt and black pepper over the top.
  8. Bake the pizza: Transfer to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until cheeses are bubbling and crust is golden.
  9. Finish and serve: Let cool for a minute, slice, and serve hot. Optionally drizzle with olive oil or garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Experiment with toppings and feel free to make this recipe your own! Serve with a side salad and a chilled drink.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto pizza, homemade pizza, Italian cuisine, vegetarian recipes, comfort food