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Elevate Your BBQ Night with Pesto Pizza
Nothing says summer grilling like a freshly baked pizza right off the grill. If you’re looking to spice up your usual pizza night, consider making a pesto pizza with fresh mozzarella. This recipe is as simple as it gets and will impress anyone at your backyard BBQ. Minimal prep time and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to be a showstopper.
Why Pesto?
Pesto, originating from Italy, is more than just a trendy sauce; it’s a vibrant, flavorful alternative to the traditional tomato base. This sauce provides a deliciously rich and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy fresh mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. Plus, the bright green color of the pesto brings a visual pop that is perfect for summer gatherings. By opting for fresh ingredients, like sweet basil and high-quality olive oil, you ensure an authentic taste that home-cooks and grill masters alike can appreciate.
Gather Your Ingredients for Perfection
For this easy BBQ pesto pizza, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:
- 8 oz pizza dough (store-bought for convenience)
- 1/2 cup fresh pesto sauce
- 5 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (for an added kick)
- 10 fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how you can create this mouth-watering pesto pizza:
- Start by preheating your grill. Place a pizza stone on it, allowing it to heat up to a roaring 500°F.
- Dust your pizza peel with flour and stretch out the pizza dough onto it, ensuring it doesn't stick.
- Spread the pesto sauce evenly on the dough, leaving a half-inch border for the crust. This is where the magic happens!
- Layer on your fresh mozzarella slices, followed by the cherry tomato halves. Sprinkle with Parmesan and those red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.
- With careful execution, slide the pizza off the peel onto the hot pizza stone. Grill for about 8 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese bubbles beautifully.
- Once baked, remove the pizza and let it rest briefly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Slice it up and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This pesto pizza is a perfect stand-alone dish, but it can also be served with sides like a fresh arugula salad or a simple charcuterie board. Pair it with a light Italian white wine or a refreshing craft beer to balance the herbal notes of the pesto. Your guests will remember this as the ultimate summer BBQ experience!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare, you can store the pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or on the grill to restore that delicious crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid using a microwave, as it will make the crust soggy.
Final Thoughts
Pesto pizza with fresh mozzarella is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This recipe is effortless but doesn’t compromise on flavor, and it’s perfect for any level of BBQ enthusiast. Remember to keep it fresh, stay creative with your toppings, and enjoy the grilling process. So, fire up that grill and wow your friends and family at your next gathering!
Don’t forget to share your pesto pizza creations or click here for more tasty BBQ recipes!
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