If you love pizza and are looking for new and delicious topping ideas, then pesto pizza is worth exploring. Pesto adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to pizzas you can’t get with traditional tomato sauce.
It opens up a world of possibilities for creative and mouth-watering combinations. In this article, I will share 10 fantastic pesto pizza toppings that will take your pizza experience to the next level.
Whether you’re a fan of classic pairings or eager to try unique and unexpected toppings, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, prepare to make your pizza night even more exciting and flavorful!
1. Basil Leaves
I love adding fresh basil leaves to my pesto pizza. They add a burst of color and a bright, herbal flavor that perfectly complements the pesto.
I scatter the basil leaves on top when the pizza is hot out of the oven.
This way, they stay fresh and fragrant.
Basil is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which makes it not only tasty but also healthy.
Sometimes, I tear the leaves into smaller pieces to ensure every bite gets that delightful basil touch.
Here’s a simple way to add basil:
- Fresh Basil: Add these before serving.
- Basil Pesto: Use as a base for extra basil flavor.
In my opinion, fresh basil is a must-have topping for any pesto pizza. It’s easy to find and makes a big difference in taste and presentation.
2. Cherry Tomatoes
One of my favorite toppings for pesto pizza is cherry tomatoes. Their sweet and juicy nature pairs well with the rich and herby pesto.
I love how they burst with flavor when you bite into them.
Start by halving the cherry tomatoes. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from rolling off the pizza.
Before adding, I like to sauté them briefly with olive oil.
This enhances their sweetness and adds a nice roasted flavor.
Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes:
- Sweet and juicy flavor
- Adds a pop of color
- Enhances the overall taste
Adding cherry tomatoes helps balance the pesto’s richness and gives your pizza a fresh, summery taste.
You can mix and match other toppings, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, for an even more delightful pizza.
Fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes will make a big difference in the final taste. Trust me, you’ll love it!
3. Mozzarella Cheese
When I think of pizza, mozzarella cheese is the first topping that comes to mind.
Mozzarella has a creamy texture that melts beautifully on top of a hot pizza. Each bite creates a lovely stringy pull, making it fun to eat.
Why I love using mozzarella on pesto pizza:
- Flavor: It’s mild and pairs perfectly with the rich taste of pesto.
- Texture: It melts smoothly and doesn’t overshadow the other toppings.
When adding mozzarella to your pesto pizza, you can use either fresh mozzarella or shredded mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella gives a more luxurious, creamy texture, while shredded mozzarella is convenient and melts evenly.
- It adds a classic touch to any pizza.
- It balances well with other ingredients.
- Easy to find in most grocery stores.
Handy Tips:
- Fresh mozzarella: Slice it thin to avoid a soggy crust.
- Shredded mozzarella: Spread it evenly for a consistent melt.
Important Note: Preheat your oven to ensure the cheese melts and browns perfectly.
4. Ricotta Cheese
Adding ricotta cheese to pesto pizza gives it a creamy and smooth texture. I love how each bite feels rich and satisfying.
Benefits of Ricotta Cheese:
- Creamy texture
- Mild flavor
- It pairs well with various toppings
When I make pesto pizza with ricotta, I usually add dollops of it all over the pizza. This way, each slice has a bit of that creamy goodness.
Ricotta also pairs well with many other toppings like:
- Fresh tomatoes
- Mozzarella cheese
- Ham
- Crushed pepper flakes
When heated in the oven, ricotta cheese becomes even creamier. It mixes wonderfully with the melted mozzarella and the fragrant pesto.
Remember, don’t overload the pizza with ricotta. Just a few spoonfuls will do the trick. Trust me, you don’t want the pizza to be too heavy to enjoy.
Give ricotta cheese a try next time you make pesto pizza. You might find it becomes a new favorite!
5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, intense flavor to pesto pizza. Their tangy taste perfectly complements the herby pesto and creamy cheese.
When using sun-dried tomatoes, it’s best to chop them into small pieces so they spread evenly across the pizza. This way, every bite gets a burst of flavor.
Here are some tips for using them:
- Use the oil: If your sun-dried tomatoes come in oil, don’t waste it! Drizzle some of the flavored oil over your pizza for an extra kick.
- Combine with fresh tomatoes: Use sun-dried and fresh tomatoes for a mix of textures and flavors.
Why I love sun-dried tomatoes on pizza:
- They have a concentrated, tangy flavor.
- They pair well with other toppings like olives and ricotta.
- They add a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crust.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: To make a sun-dried tomato pesto, blend sun-dried tomatoes with basil, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil. This is a tasty twist on traditional pesto.
Adding sun-dried tomatoes to your pesto pizza is a game-changer. It elevates the flavor and makes every bite delightful.
6. Artichoke Hearts
I love adding artichoke hearts to my pesto pizza. They bring a unique texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of pesto.
Artichokes add a subtle, earthy taste with a slight tang. I usually use marinated artichoke hearts because they come pre-seasoned with herbs and spices.
Here’s why they work so well:
- Texture: Soft but with a bit of a bite
- Flavor: Earthy and slightly sour
- Convenience: Easy to find in canned or jarred form
Before adding them to the pizza, I drain and lightly squeeze them to remove excess liquid. This helps keep the pizza from becoming soggy.
If you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your pizza, combine artichoke hearts with mozzarella and maybe even some fresh spinach. Just spread the pesto, add your toppings, and bake!
You can also mix artichoke hearts with lemon zest and black pepper for extra zing. Trust me, this flavor combination will have everyone asking for more!
7. Kalamata Olives
I love adding Kalamata olives to my pesto pizza. These dark purple olives have a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh taste of pesto.
Here are a few reasons why you should try them:
- Bold Flavor: Kalamata olives have a robust and unmistakable taste that adds depth to the pizza.
- Texture: They add a nice chewy texture, enhancing each bite.
- Nutritional Benefits: These olives are a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants.
When I use Kalamata olives, I usually slice them in half and scatter them evenly over the pizza. This way, each slice gets just the right amount of olive goodness.
Another tip: if they are too salty, you might want to rinse them under cold water. This helps balance the flavors on your pizza.
I think Kalamata olives can turn a simple pesto pizza into something special. Their unique taste and texture make every bite a delight.
8. Arugula
Arugula is one of my favorite toppings for pesto pizza. It’s fresh and peppery, and when added to a pizza, it brings a bright and slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy pesto.
Why Arugula?
- Freshness: Arugula gives a fresh taste that balances decadent ingredients like mozzarella and parmesan.
- Peppery Kick: The slight spiciness of the arugula adds a unique flavor without overwhelming it.
How to Use Arugula:
- Raw: Add a handful of fresh arugula on top right after baking for a crisp bite.
- Baked: Mix some arugula into the pizza before cooking for a slightly wilted texture.
Extra Tips:
- Lightly drizzle with olive oil before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Sprinkle with a dash of red pepper flakes if you like extra spice.
Placing arugula on a hot pizza fresh out of the oven is a simple way to add a bright, delightful taste to your meal. It’s both a classic and an exciting twist for any pesto pizza.
9. Pine Nuts
Pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to pesto pizza. I love how they complement the creamy pesto sauce and the gooey cheese. These tiny nuts pack a punch of flavor and texture that’s hard to beat.
I’ve found that toasting the pine nuts before adding them to the pizza enhances their flavor even more. Just a quick toast in a dry pan until golden brown is perfect.
Here are some simple tips for using pine nuts on your pesto pizza:
- Scatter them evenly over the pizza to ensure each bite has that delicious crunch.
- Use sparingly if you’re watching your fat intake, as pine nuts are rich in healthy fats.
Pro tip: You can combine pine nuts with other toppings like goat cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for a more complex flavor profile.
10. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is one of my favorite toppings for a pesto pizza. Its sharp, salty flavor pairs perfectly with pesto’s fresh, herby taste.
I love to sprinkle grated Parmesan on top of the pizza just before baking. This allows it to melt slightly and get a little crispy on the edges.
Why Parmesan Works
- Salty contrast: It balances the sweetness of any tomatoes or other ingredients.
- Crunchy texture: When melted just right, it adds a great texture.
Add Parmesan cheese. Experienced home cooks and beginners can make a big difference by adding it. So, next time you make pesto pizza, don’t forget to try it with some Parmesan cheese on top. It makes the pizza stand out.
Do you have any other favorite toppings to add? I’d love to hear your ideas!
Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated can work, but fresh is always better.
Jesmin Bithi, the co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a culinary maestro who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the platform. Jesmin’s journey in the food world started in her home kitchen, experimenting with different recipes and flavors. Her passion for cooking soon transcended the boundaries of her kitchen, leading her to become a professional chef.
