This Toasted Walnut Pesto and Caramelized Nectarine Pizza with Spicy Balsamic Drizzle is an elevated twist on traditional pizza, offering a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. The richness of the walnut pesto pairs perfectly with the juicy, caramelized nectarines and is topped off with a tangy, spicy balsamic reduction for an unforgettable bite. This unique pizza makes an ideal dish for entertaining or for a special dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 nectarines, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a food processor, combine toasted walnuts, garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth to make the pesto.
- Roll out pizza dough on a baking sheet.
- Spread the pesto evenly over the pizza dough.
- Top with sliced nectarines.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and nectarines are caramelized.
- In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the cooked pizza.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper before serving.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations:
- Different Nuts: Swap out the toasted walnuts for pine nuts, almonds, or pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Add Protein: Top the pizza with cooked chicken, prosciutto, or bacon for a more substantial meal.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, use dairy-free pesto (substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast) and a plant-based cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes to the balsamic drizzle for an extra layer of heat, or toss the nectarines in chili powder before baking.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding goat cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella alongside the pesto for a creamy contrast.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until the crust is crisp again.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute store-bought pesto for the walnut pesto if you’re short on time, though homemade pesto adds a fresh touch.
- What if I don’t have nectarines? You can use peaches, plums, or even figs as a replacement for nectarines, keeping the sweet and savory balance.
- How can I make the balsamic drizzle spicier? Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the balsamic reduction to increase the heat.
- Can I prepare the pesto ahead of time? Yes, you can make the walnut pesto in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Is there a gluten-free option for the pizza dough? Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough as a substitute if you need a gluten-free version.
- Can I freeze the pizza dough? Yes, you can freeze the pizza dough before assembling. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before rolling it out.
- Can I make this pizza on a grill? Yes, you can grill the pizza by preheating your grill and cooking the dough on it first, then adding the pesto and toppings.
- How do I know when the nectarines are caramelized? The nectarines should be slightly softened and golden brown around the edges when they’re done baking.
- Can I add cheese to the pizza? Yes, you can add cheese such as mozzarella, goat cheese, or ricotta for extra creaminess and flavor.
- How can I make the crust crispier? Preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the dough on it, which will help achieve a crisper crust.
Conclusion:
Toasted Walnut Pesto and Caramelized Nectarine Pizza with Spicy Balsamic Drizzle is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements that will elevate your pizza game. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a delicious, unique meal, this pizza offers an exciting twist on a classic favorite. With the option to customize the toppings and the pesto, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy a mouthwatering experience with every bite!