Description
This vibrant Pesto Pizza recipe features a homemade basil pesto spread over crispy pizza dough, topped with mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of basil. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this easy-to-make pizza offers fresh, savory flavors and a delightful texture, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Pesto
- 1 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves
- 3 Tablespoons (24g) pine nuts
- 3 Tablespoons (12g) freshly grated or shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 small cloves garlic
- 3 Tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pizza Dough and Toppings
- 1/2 recipe homemade pizza dough or 1 lb. store-bought pizza dough
- 1 Tablespoon (15ml) olive oil, divided
- 1 Tablespoon (8g) cornmeal
- 1 and 1/2 cups (6 ounces or 180g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (75g) halved cherry tomatoes or sliced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup (12g) chopped fresh basil
- Optional for garnish: extra pesto, sprinkle of shredded parmesan cheese and/or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: Pulse basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves in a food processor until finely chopped. Slowly add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper while pulsing until the mixture forms a smooth pesto. Transfer to a container and refrigerate until ready to use to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Dough: Prepare your pizza dough according to your recipe or thaw store-bought dough. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Grease a baking sheet lightly with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add crunch.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough if necessary and flatten it with your hands or a rolling pin. Shape into a rough 12-inch circle, creating a slightly raised rim around the edges to hold toppings during baking.
- Assemble the Pizza: Brush 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over the dough surface. Spread a generous layer of the prepared pesto evenly over the dough, leaving the rim clear. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, then scatter halved cherry tomatoes if using. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 14–15 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top. Optionally, add extra pesto, a sprinkle of shredded parmesan, or red pepper flakes according to your taste. Slice and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
- Homemade pizza dough adds extra freshness but store-bought dough is a convenient option.
- Fresh tomatoes are optional; omit or replace with roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
- Store leftover pesto covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
