Name: Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 medium prepared pizza crust; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup Mozzarella cheese; 1 pear; 6 slice prosciutto; ½ red onion; ½ cup gorgonzola; 2 cups baby arugula

This prosciutto, arugula and gorgonzola pizza recipe brings together a tantalizing blend of flavors. The saltiness of prosciutto, the pungency of gorgonzola and the peppery taste of arugula combine to create a pizza that's a feast for the senses. With a hint of sweetness from pears and a red onion crunch, it's a gourmet treat that's surprisingly easy to make at home.

Photos of Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this pizza are commonplace in most homes, you may need to head to the supermarket for a few items. Prosciutto, an Italian dry-cured ham, can typically be found in the deli section. Gorgonzola, a veined Italian blue cheese, can be located in the cheese aisle. If baby arugula is not available, regular arugula can be used as a substitute.

Ingredients for Prosciutto, Arugula and Gorgonzola Pizza

Pizza crust: This is the base of the pizza. You can use a pre-made crust or make your own.

Olive oil: This is used to brush the pizza crust before adding the toppings.

Mozzarella cheese: This cheese will serve as the primary cheese for the pizza, adding a smooth, creamy flavor.

Pear: The sweetness of the pear adds a nice contrast to the saltiness of the prosciutto and gorgonzola.

Prosciutto: Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham that adds a salty, savory flavor.

Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a slight crunch and a mild flavor.

Gorgonzola: Gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese. It's strong and pungent, adding a depth of flavor to the pizza.

Arugula: Added after the pizza is cooked, arugula gives a fresh, peppery taste.

One reader, Jamal Valles says:

This prosciutto, arugula, and gorgonzola pizza recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is divine, and the gorgonzola adds a delightful tang. The arugula provides a fresh, peppery kick. It's a must-try for pizza lovers!

Jamal Valles

Essential Techniques for Making Pizza Dough

How to assemble the pizza: Layer the pizza crust with olive oil, mozzarella cheese, pear slices, prosciutto, red onion, and gorgonzola.

How to bake the pizza: Place the assembled pizza in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or as per the package instructions, until the crust is slightly golden, the mozzarella is melted, and the gorgonzola is slightly golden.

How to finish the pizza: After removing the pizza from the oven, toss the baby arugula on top, slice the pizza, and serve immediately.

How To Make Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1mediumprepared pizza crust,homemade or storebought
2tbspolive oil
1cupMozzarella cheese
1pear,ripe, any variety, cored and sliced very thin
6sliceprosciutto,slices, torn into smaller pieces
½red onion,sliced thin
½cupGorgonzola,crumbled
2cupsbaby arugula

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the pizza crust with the olive oil. Sprinkle the Mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the crust. Then layer with pear slices, prosciutto, red onion and gorgonzola.
Bake pizza for 10-12 minutes (or according to package instructions), until crust is slightly golden and the Mozzarella is melted and the gorgonzola is slightly golden. Remove from oven, then toss the arugula on top. Slice pizza and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 826.89kcal
Fat: 43.18g
Saturated Fat: 20.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.47g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.65g
Carbohydrates: 67.66g
Fiber: 5.23g
Sugar: 8.91g
Protein: 41.82g
Cholesterol: 114.97mg
Sodium: 2338.09mg
Calcium: 720.68mg
Potassium: 511.90mg
Iron: 3.98mg
Vitamin A: 221.11µg
Vitamin C: 4.88mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Perfect Pizza Crust

To ensure your prosciutto stays tender and doesn't dry out during the baking process, consider adding it halfway through the cooking time. This will also preserve its rich, salty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your pizza. Additionally, thinly slicing the pear and red onion will allow them to cook evenly and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Pizza

Prep ahead: Prepare the pizza crust and chop the toppings in advance to save time when assembling the pizza.

Use pre-made dough: Save time by using store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch.

Multi-task: While the pizza is baking, use that time to prepare a simple side salad or appetizer to complete the meal.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and kitchen tools needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Pre-sliced toppings: Purchase pre-sliced prosciutto and pre-crumbled gorgonzola to eliminate the need for additional prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza Recipe

prosciutto - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey has a similar smoky and savory flavor to prosciutto, and it provides a leaner alternative.
arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach has a mild, slightly peppery flavor similar to arugula and provides a nutritious and versatile alternative.
gorgonzola - Substitute with blue cheese: Blue cheese has a similar tangy and pungent flavor to gorgonzola, making it a suitable replacement in the pizza recipe.

Presentation Tips for Prosciutto, Arugula and Gorgonzola Pizza

Elevate the pizza crust: Use a high-quality, artisanal pizza crust that is hand-stretched and slightly charred for an authentic and rustic presentation.
Artfully arrange the toppings: Layer the pear slices, prosciutto, and red onion in an aesthetically pleasing manner, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed for a balanced flavor profile in every bite.
Garnish with vibrant arugula: Toss the baby arugula in a light vinaigrette and delicately place it on top of the pizza just before serving, adding a pop of color and a fresh, peppery flavor to the dish.
Highlight the gorgonzola: Crumble the gorgonzola over the pizza, ensuring that it is evenly distributed to provide bursts of creamy, tangy flavor throughout the entire dish.
Emphasize the prosciutto: Arrange the prosciutto slices in a visually appealing pattern, allowing the rich, savory flavor of the cured meat to be showcased as a focal point of the dish.
Create a visually stunning presentation: Consider using a wooden pizza peel or a sleek serving platter to present the pizza, enhancing the overall visual appeal and sophistication of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Gourmet Pizza at Home

Oven: You will need an oven to bake the pizza at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Brush: Use a brush to evenly spread the olive oil on the pizza crust.
Baking sheet: Place the prepared pizza on a baking sheet before putting it in the oven.
Knife: Use a knife to slice the pear and red onion.
Cutting board: A cutting board will provide a stable surface for slicing the pear and red onion.
Measuring cup: Use a measuring cup to measure the mozzarella cheese and gorgonzola.
Pizza cutter: After baking, use a pizza cutter to slice the pizza into portions for serving.
Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet and pizza with oven mitts.
Tongs: Toss the arugula on top of the pizza using tongs for even distribution.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pizza for Later

Let the pizza cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and the toppings from sliding off.
To store leftover pizza in the refrigerator, place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Properly stored, the pizza will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza:
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and make it easier to grab a slice when you're ready to eat.
- Alternatively, freeze the entire pizza by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pizza in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen pizza will maintain its best quality for 1-2 months. After that, it will still be safe to eat but may experience changes in texture and flavor.
To reheat refrigerated pizza, place the slices on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
For frozen pizza, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above, or reheat it directly from frozen. To reheat from frozen, place the pizza on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Note that the arugula may wilt and lose its texture when reheated. For best results, you can remove the arugula before storing or freezing the pizza, and add fresh arugula when serving the reheated slices.

How To Reheat Leftover Pizza

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the crust while evenly heating the toppings.
If you prefer a softer crust, you can reheat the pizza in the microwave. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pizza, as it can cause the prosciutto to become tough and the arugula to wilt.
For a quick and easy method, you can reheat the pizza in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and place the pizza slices in the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps to crisp up the bottom of the crust while gently warming the toppings.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover pizza, try drizzling a small amount of olive oil over the slices before reheating. This will help to enhance the flavors of the prosciutto, arugula, and gorgonzola, while also keeping the crust moist and delicious.
For a gourmet touch, you can also add a few fresh toppings to your reheated pizza. Try topping the slices with some fresh baby arugula, thinly sliced red onion, or a sprinkle of gorgonzola before serving. This will give your leftover pizza a fresh and vibrant flavor that tastes just as good as when it was first made.

Interesting Trivia About Prosciutto, Arugula, and Gorgonzola

Prosciutto, arugula and gorgonzola pizza is a popular dish in Italy. It is believed that the first pizza was created in Naples, Italy in the 18th century. The original pizza was a simple flatbread topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Over time, various toppings were added, including prosciutto, arugula, and gorgonzola. Today, pizza is enjoyed worldwide with countless variations. The combination of salty prosciutto, peppery arugula, and tangy gorgonzola creates a delicious and unique flavor profile that has become a favorite for many pizza lovers.

Is Making Gourmet Pizza at Home Cost-Effective?

This prosciutto, arugula and gorgonzola pizza recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as prosciutto and gorgonzola, can be on the pricier side, but the overall cost is balanced by the use of arugula and basic pizza crust. The flavor combination and quality of ingredients justify the cost. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $25-$30.

Is This Pizza Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This prosciutto, arugula, and gorgonzola pizza recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest choice. Here's why:

The pizza crust, depending on the type used, can be high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber.
Mozzarella and gorgonzola cheeses are high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
Prosciutto, while delicious, is also high in sodium and saturated fat.
The recipe lacks a significant source of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

However, the inclusion of arugula and pear adds a touch of freshness and provides some vitamins and minerals.

To make this pizza a healthier option, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a whole wheat or cauliflower pizza crust to increase fiber intake and reduce refined carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of mozzarella and gorgonzola cheese used, or choose lower-fat alternatives like part-skim mozzarella or feta.
Use prosciutto sparingly as a garnish rather than a main topping, or replace it with a leaner protein source like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Increase the amount of arugula and add other nutrient-dense vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to boost the pizza's nutritional value.
Drizzle the pizza with a balsamic glaze instead of extra olive oil to add flavor without increasing the fat content significantly.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and more balanced meal that still satisfies your pizza cravings.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Pizza Recipe Is a Must-Try

This prosciutto, arugula, and gorgonzola pizza recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs perfectly with the peppery arugula and the creamy gorgonzola. The addition of sweet pear and tangy red onion adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The combination of these ingredients on a crispy pizza crust creates a harmonious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!

Enhance Your Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until tender and crispy.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roast brussels sprouts until crispy, then drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Coat carrots in a honey sriracha glaze, then roast until caramelized and tender for a spicy-sweet side dish.

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries: Coat zucchini in parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and crispy for a delicious alternative to traditional fries.

Similar Gourmet Pizza Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Balsamic Glazed Salmon: Coat the salmon in a sweet and savory balsamic glaze before baking to perfection for a flavorful and elegant main course.

Mango Coconut Sorbet: Blend together ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk for a refreshing and dairy-free dessert that's perfect for hot summer days.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement This Pizza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with this classic Italian dish. Toasted bread topped with a fresh and zesty mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. A refreshing and delicious start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will leave your taste buds craving more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza Recipe:

This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, featuring the classic combination of prosciutto, peppery arugula, and creamy gorgonzola. The sweetness of the pear complements the saltiness of the prosciutto, while the sharpness of the gorgonzola adds depth. The use of mozzarella cheese as a base ensures a gooey, melty finish. The addition of red onion provides a subtle bite, and the finishing touch of fresh arugula adds a vibrant, peppery note. This recipe promises a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Want to share your experience making this Prosciutto, Arugula & Gorgonzola Pizza or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of gorgonzola?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Blue cheese or feta would be great alternatives to gorgonzola.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of prosciutto?

Absolutely! You can use other types of cured meats like pancetta or even cooked bacon as a substitute for prosciutto.

Can I make the pizza crust from scratch?

Of course! If you prefer to make your own pizza crust, feel free to use your favorite homemade pizza dough recipe.

Can I add other toppings to the pizza?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings to customize the pizza to your liking. Some popular additions include mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Can I use a different type of greens instead of arugula?

Yes, you can use other greens such as spinach or kale if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.