Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza Recipe

Immerse yourself in the unique fusion of sweet and savory with this Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza recipe. This offbeat pizza satisfies the palate with its fresh strawberries and aromatic basil, all enhanced by the deep, sweet tang of balsamic reduction, and held together by a warm, crispy dough.

Photos of Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe might already be in your pantry, you may need to pick up some fresh strawberries, basil, and goat cheese from your local supermarket. The recipe calls for whole wheat pizza dough, which can usually be found in the bakery section. If you prefer, you can also use regular pizza dough. The balsamic reduction is made using balsamic vinegar and honey, reducing it to a thick, sweet, and tangy sauce.

Ingredients for your Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

Whole wheat pizza dough: This type of dough adds a nutty flavor and a bit of a denser texture to your pizza.

Shredded mozzarella: Adds that lovely melted cheese effect and a mild, milky flavor.

Goat cheese: Adds a tangy and creamy flavor to your pizza.

Strawberries: They provide a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the pizza.

Fresh basil: Offers a sweet, peppery taste and a wonderful aroma.

Black pepper: Adds a little heat to balance out the sweet and savory flavors.

Balsamic vinegar: Gives a sweet and tangy flavor.

Honey: Used to sweeten the balsamic reduction.

One reader, Knox Tisdale says:

This strawberry, basil, and balsamic pizza recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet strawberries, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic reduction creates an explosion of flavors. The crust is perfectly crispy, and the gooey cheese ties everything together. It's a delightful twist on traditional pizza that's sure to impress!

Knox Tisdale

Techniques Required for Making Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

Rolling out the pizza dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch to 14-inch round on a floured surface, ensuring it is evenly stretched and not too thick in any areas.

Making the balsamic reduction: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Gently simmer the mixture on medium-low heat until it is reduced in volume by half, creating a thick and slightly sweet balsamic reduction.

How To Make Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

With sweetness and tartness from strawberry topping, this pizza recipe combines the earthy tones of basil and the strong flavors of the balsamic vinegar.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pizza:

16ozwhole wheat pizza dough,prepared
6ozshredded mozzarella,(1½ cups)
5ozgoat cheese
½lbchopped strawberries,(1½ cups), leafy ends removed and sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
1tbspfresh basil,chiffonade into short little strips
freshly ground black pepper,to taste

For Balsamic Reduction:

½cupbalsamic vinegar
2tbsphoney

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Pizza:

Roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch to 14-inch round on a floured surface. Top the pizza dough with the shredded mozzarella, big crumbles of goat cheese, and strawberries.
Bake on a lightly oiled baking sheet for about 35 to 40 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden and the crust is crisp underneath.

Balsamic Reduction:

In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar and honey. Gently simmer the mixture on medium-low heat until it is reduced in volume by half and set aside.
Once the pizza is done baking, top it with a sprinkle of basil and freshly ground black pepper. Slice it and use a spoon to lightly drizzle balsamic vinegar on top.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 304.45kcal
Fat: 10.57g
Saturated Fat: 5.87g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.73g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.09g
Carbohydrates: 38.32g
Fiber: 2.22g
Sugar: 8.77g
Protein: 13.32g
Cholesterol: 24.95mg
Sodium: 566.47mg
Calcium: 188.08mg
Potassium: 153.87mg
Iron: 2.40mg
Vitamin A: 90.36µg
Vitamin C: 16.76mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

When making your balsamic reduction, it's important to keep a close eye on it. The vinegar and honey mixture can easily burn if left unattended. Stir it occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Also, remember that it will continue to thicken as it cools, so remove it from the heat just before it reaches your desired consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pizza Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the pizza dough and balsamic reduction the night before. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella to save time on grating the cheese.

Quick chop: Use a food processor to quickly chop the strawberries and basil for the pizza topping.

Multi-task: While the pizza is baking, prepare the balsamic reduction to save time.

Preheat efficiently: Preheat the oven while you are preparing the pizza to save time.

Organize ingredients: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to assemble the pizza for a smoother cooking process.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and tools as you cook to minimize clean-up time later.

Use a pizza stone: Preheat a pizza stone in the oven while preparing the pizza to speed up the cooking process and achieve a crispier crust.

Invest in a good pizza cutter: A sharp pizza cutter will make slicing the pizza quick and easy.

Plan for leftovers: Make extra pizza and store the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal the next day.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza Recipe

strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries have a similar tartness and sweetness to strawberries, making them a suitable substitute for this pizza recipe.
basil - Substitute with mint: Mint can provide a fresh and aromatic flavor similar to basil, adding a unique twist to the pizza.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with balsamic glaze: Balsamic glaze is a thicker, sweeter version of balsamic vinegar, which can add a rich and concentrated flavor to the pizza.

Best Way to Present Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

Elevate the pizza dough: Use a high-quality whole wheat pizza dough and roll it out to a perfect 12-inch to 14-inch round shape. The dough should be thin and evenly rolled for a professional presentation.
Layer the cheese with precision: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and crumble the goat cheese with care, ensuring even distribution across the pizza. This will create a visually appealing and balanced cheese layer.
Artfully arrange the strawberries: Chop the strawberries into uniform pieces and arrange them strategically on top of the cheese. The placement should be visually appealing and showcase the vibrant color of the strawberries.
Garnish with fresh basil: Finely chop the fresh basil and sprinkle it over the pizza just before serving. The bright green color will add a pop of freshness and elevate the overall presentation.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Use a spoon to lightly drizzle the balsamic reduction over the finished pizza in an artistic manner. This will add a touch of elegance and depth of flavor to the dish.
Serve on a sleek platter: Present the pizza on a sleek, clean platter that complements the colors of the ingredients. The choice of platter can enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Garnish the serving platter: Add a few whole basil leaves or a few fresh strawberries around the edge of the platter for a polished and professional touch.
Use professional serving utensils: When serving the pizza, use high-quality utensils such as a pizza wheel and a spatula to ensure precise and elegant portions.
Consider the overall composition: When plating the pizza, consider the overall composition and balance of colors and textures. Aim for a visually stunning presentation that showcases the ingredients harmoniously.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details, such as wiping any excess sauce from the edges of the plate and ensuring that the presentation is flawless before serving.

Essential Tools for Making This Unique Pizza

Oven: You will need an oven to bake the pizza at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Baking sheet: Use a baking sheet to place the pizza dough and toppings for baking.
Small saucepan: A small saucepan is required to make the balsamic reduction by simmering the vinegar and honey.
Rolling pin: Use a rolling pin to roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch to 14-inch round on a floured surface.
Knife: A knife will be needed to chop the strawberries and basil for the pizza topping.
Spoon: Use a spoon to drizzle the balsamic reduction on top of the baked pizza.
Mixing bowl: You may need a mixing bowl to combine the shredded mozzarella, goat cheese, and strawberries before topping the pizza dough.
Whisk: A whisk can be used to mix the balsamic vinegar and honey for the reduction.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Pizza Slices

Let the pizza cool completely 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 up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the pizza for later consumption, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the individual slices tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain.
2. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating each slice with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Freeze the pizza for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
To reheat refrigerated pizza, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
For frozen pizza, you can either thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above, or place the frozen slices directly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
Keep in mind that the texture of the strawberries and basil may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the overall flavor of the pizza should remain delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic 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 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the crust while keeping the toppings warm and gooey.
For a quicker option, use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the pizza slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bottom of the crust is crispy. This method helps to create a crispy crust while melting the cheese and warming the strawberries and basil.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your leftover pizza. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza slices on the toaster oven rack or a small baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method is perfect for reheating small portions of pizza while maintaining its texture and flavor.
For a unique twist, try reheating your leftover strawberry, basil, and balsamic pizza on a grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the pizza slices on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method adds a smoky flavor to the pizza and creates a delightfully crispy crust.
If you want to maintain the softness of the crust, you can use the microwave. Place the pizza slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-60 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 crust to become soggy. If desired, you can place the microwaved pizza slices in a preheated oven or toaster oven for a minute or two to crisp up the crust.

Random Fact About Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

The combination of strawberries, basil, and balsamic vinegar creates a unique and delicious flavor profile. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the tangy balsamic reduction, while the fresh basil adds a refreshing herbal note. This unexpected pizza topping is a delightful twist on the traditional savory pizza, showcasing the versatility of these ingredients. It's a great way to introduce a sweet and savory element to your pizza night.

Is Making This Pizza Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This strawberry, basil, and balsamic pizza recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as whole wheat pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, and strawberries, are generally affordable and accessible. The balsamic vinegar and goat cheese may be slightly pricier, but they add a unique flavor profile. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, earning a solid 8/10 rating for taste and creativity.

Is This Pizza Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This strawberry, basil, and balsamic pizza recipe offers a unique twist on traditional pizza, incorporating some healthier ingredients. Let's break down the nutritional aspects:

Whole wheat pizza dough provides more fiber and nutrients compared to regular white dough.
Mozzarella and goat cheese offer protein and calcium, but they also contribute to the overall fat and calorie content.
Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Basil adds a fresh, aromatic flavor and contains beneficial plant compounds.
The balsamic reduction, while adding depth to the flavor profile, also increases the sugar content due to the honey.

While this pizza incorporates some nutritious elements, it's still relatively high in calories, fat, and sugar. However, enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be acceptable.

To enhance the nutritional value of this pizza, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a thinner crust to reduce the overall carbohydrate and calorie content
Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose lower-fat varieties to decrease the saturated fat content
Include additional vegetable toppings such as spinach, bell peppers, or onions to increase the fiber and nutrient density
Use a lighter hand when drizzling the balsamic reduction to minimize added sugars
Pair the pizza with a side salad to boost your intake of fresh vegetables and create a more balanced meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Unique Pizza Combination

The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and tangy balsamic reduction on a whole wheat crust creates a unique and delightful flavor profile. The addition of fresh basil adds a refreshing herbal note, while the balsamic reduction provides a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The use of whole wheat pizza dough adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture, making this pizza a healthier option. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional pizza and is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

Enhance Your Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey sauce, perfect for balancing out the savory flavors of the pizza.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled vegetables marinated in balsamic vinegar, adding a smoky and tangy flavor to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Unique Pizza

Grilled Peach and Basil Salad: Grilled peaches, fresh basil, and a tangy vinaigrette come together to create a refreshing and flavorful salad.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberry Salsa: Juicy balsamic glazed chicken topped with a sweet and tangy strawberry salsa for a perfect balance of flavors.

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms stuffed with mozzarella, basil, and juicy tomatoes for a delicious and satisfying vegetarian dish.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a balsamic glaze and topped with savory bacon for a mouthwatering side dish.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade: A refreshing and vibrant lemonade infused with sweet strawberries and aromatic basil for a delightful summer beverage.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and creamy filling, then baking them to perfection. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the decadent filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of flavors and textures will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests craving for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Shortcake: Enjoy layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet macerated strawberries, and billowy whipped cream for a classic and refreshing dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique and delightful combination of flavors, incorporating the freshness of strawberries, the aromatic essence of basil, and the rich tang of balsamic vinegar. The use of whole wheat pizza dough adds a wholesome touch, while the combination of mozzarella and goat cheese provides a perfect balance of creaminess. The balsamic reduction, made with balsamic vinegar and honey, adds a sweet and tangy finish. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this unique Strawberry, Basil, and Balsamic Pizza recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you've tried any creative pizza toppings lately!

FAQ:

What type of pizza dough should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier option, but you can also use regular pizza dough if you prefer.

Can I use other types of cheese for this pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta, gorgonzola, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you have dietary restrictions.

How can I tell if the balsamic reduction is ready?

The balsamic reduction is ready when it has reduced in volume by half and has a slightly thick, syrupy consistency.

Can I prepare the balsamic reduction in advance?

Yes, you can make the balsamic reduction ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just gently reheat it before drizzling it over the pizza.

Can I add other toppings to the pizza?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it with additional toppings like prosciutto, arugula, or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.