The BEST Strawberry Pizza

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional pizza, then you need to try The BEST Strawberry Pizza! This unique dish combines the sweetness of strawberries with savory toppings to create a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a fun way to impress friends and family during gatherings or cozy weeknights at home.

What I love most about this strawberry pizza is how easy it is to whip up. Whether it’s for a casual get-together or an elegant appetizer, this dish never fails to steal the spotlight. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, seasonal strawberries while bringing a splash of color to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: Your guests will be wowed by the vibrant colors and unique flavors.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of sweet and savory.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the crust and toppings in advance for quick assembly later.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or even as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! They are simple, wholesome, and can easily be found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you need to create The BEST Strawberry Pizza:

For the Dough

• 5 cups flour
• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 pkg)
• 1/4 cup olive oil plus more for when the dough is rising
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cornmeal

For the Toppings

• 2 cups strawberries chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 10 pizza crust
• 1/4 cup strawberry sauce
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup caramelized onions (about one onion)
• 6 strawberries (sliced)
• 1 ball fresh mozzarella
• 4 pieces turkey slices
• 1/4 cup basil (thinly sliced)
• sprinkle maldon salt (or other finishing salt)
• drizzle balsamic reduction

Variations

One of the best things about The BEST Strawberry Pizza is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or roasted veggies instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Change up the cheese: Goat cheese or feta can add a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh mint or thyme can bring new flavors that complement the sweetness of the fruit.

How to Make The BEST Strawberry Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing together the flour, yeast, lukewarm water, olive oil, salt, and cornmeal in a large bowl. Knead until smooth—this step is crucial as it develops gluten which gives your crust that lovely chewy texture. Once kneaded, let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size; this usually takes about an hour.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

While your dough rises, slice one onion thinly and cook it over medium heat with a bit of olive oil until golden brown and sweet. This process brings out their natural sugars and adds depth to your pizza.

Step 3: Prepare Strawberry Mixture

In another bowl, combine chopped strawberries with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes; this helps release their juices and creates a delicious topping!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pizza

Preheat your oven while rolling out your dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread strawberry sauce evenly over the crust, then add ricotta cheese dollops followed by the caramelized onions. Next comes the fresh mozzarella and those beautiful sliced strawberries! Top with turkey slices and sprinkle with basil.

Step 5: Bake!

Pop your assembled pizza into a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it—the aroma will have everyone rushing into the kitchen!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once baked, finish with a sprinkle of maldon salt and drizzle balsamic reduction over top before slicing. Serve warm and watch as everyone delights in The BEST Strawberry Pizza!

Enjoy every bite! This dish is sure to become an instant favorite in your home just like it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Strawberry Pizza

This recipe is a delightful way to impress your guests with vibrant flavors and a beautiful presentation!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and quality olive oil make a big difference in flavor. The freshness enhances the overall taste of the pizza and brings out the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Pre-Bake the Crust: Baking the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings ensures it stays crispy. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy when you add your toppings later.
• Thinly Slice Your Onions: Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but thin slices cook more evenly and develop a lovely sweetness. This will add depth to your pizza without overpowering it.
• Balance Sweetness with Saltiness: A sprinkle of Maldon salt or finishing salt enhances flavors beautifully. The saltiness contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite irresistible.
• Experiment with Cheese: While fresh mozzarella is classic, feel free to try other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a tangier twist. Different cheeses can bring new flavors that complement the strawberry topping nicely.

How to Serve The BEST Strawberry Pizza

Serving this strawberry pizza is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes that enhance its fresh flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of thinly sliced basil adds an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzling balsamic reduction over the top not only adds beauty but also a rich, tangy flavor that balances sweetness.
• Microgreens: For an elegant touch, consider adding some microgreens on top right before serving. They add color and freshness!

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can be a fantastic side that complements the pizza’s taste profile while adding some smoky flavor.
• Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad featuring berries can serve as a light dessert option after enjoying your savory pizza.
• Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with cucumbers and parsley offers a satisfying crunch and balances out the meal nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around The BEST Strawberry Pizza! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This strawberry pizza is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a breeze to put together when you’re ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the pizza without toppings.
• Wrap the cooled crust tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to use, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding toppings.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the pizza on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent burning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about making The BEST Strawberry Pizza? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make The BEST Strawberry Pizza gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your yeast is also gluten-free.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese on The BEST Strawberry Pizza?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using cottage cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for a similar texture and taste.

How do I know when my pizza crust is done?

The crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, you can always check the bottom; it should be lightly browned as well.

Can I add other fruits to The BEST Strawberry Pizza?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delicious twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful strawberry pizza! Its unique blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors makes it an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your own twists on this fabulous creation!