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Pesto Pizza with Fresh Basil

Pesto Pizza with Fresh Basil
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Pesto Pizza with Fresh Basil brings a vibrant, fresh twist to classic pizza nights. Featuring a crispy crust, creamy mozzarella, and the rich, nutty flavor of homemade basil pesto topped with bright fresh basil leaves, this easy-to-make pizza offers perfect balance of textures and herbal freshness. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned pizza lovers, it’s a delicious Italian-inspired dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings for a truly personal gourmet experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Base and Sauce

  • 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, enough for one 12-inch pizza)
  • ½ cup basil pesto (freshly made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil)

Cheeses

  • 1 to 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, torn or sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Toppings and Garnish

  • Handful of fresh basil leaves (to add after baking)
  • Optional: ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Other

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the crust and drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: Preheat your oven to the highest setting available (475°F to 500°F). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your preferred thickness, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
  2. Add the pesto base: Spread a generous and even layer of basil pesto over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust.
  3. Layer the cheese: Evenly scatter the torn or sliced mozzarella cheese over the pesto layer. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese lightly on top to enhance flavor.
  4. Bake the pizza: Transfer the pizza onto a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and crisp and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  5. Add fresh basil: Immediately after baking, scatter fresh basil leaves over the pizza. The residual heat will release their aroma while keeping them fresh and vibrant.
  6. Final touches: Drizzle olive oil lightly over the pizza. Add optional cherry tomatoes or any other chosen toppings. Slice and serve immediately to enjoy the full burst of fresh flavors.

Notes

  • Use a preheated pizza stone for a crispier crust.
  • Freshly made pesto greatly enhances the flavor compared to jarred.
  • Keep toppings light for proper baking and to avoid soggy crust.
  • Bring dough and cheese to room temperature before use for even cooking.
  • Add fresh basil only after baking to preserve brightness and aroma.
  • Store leftover pizza wrapped tightly to maintain freshness for 2-3 days refrigerated.
  • Freeze baked slices wrapped in foil for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat slices in an oven or toaster oven to keep crust crisp; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto pizza, fresh basil pizza, Italian pizza, easy pizza recipe, homemade pizza, basil pesto pizza, gluten-free pizza

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/pesto-pizza-with-fresh-basil/