What makes a perfect summer pizza? Fresh tomatoes and basil take center stage in this easy homemade recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Roasted tomatoes add depth of flavor to this family favorite dish. Save this idea

there is a pizza with tomatoes and basil on it

Introduction

Imagine a dish so simple, yet so full of flavor and life, it’s like a taste of summer in every bite. This pizza, adorned with the vibrant red of fresh tomatoes and the bright green of basil, is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. With its ease of preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and the room for creativity it offers, this pizza is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their culinary routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, the combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted mozzarella on a crispy crust is sure to impress and delight.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of tomatoes and basil provides a classic and well-balanced flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. The ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this dish accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: With a preparation time of just a few minutes and a cooking time that’s equally as short, this pizza can be ready in under half an hour, perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation and flavors of this pizza are sure to impress. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil, combined with the golden crust, make for a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for serving to guests.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of this pizza lies in its simplicity, with just a few key ingredients needed to bring it to life. These include a pizza crust (which can be homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference), fresh tomatoes (any variety, though cherry tomatoes work particularly well for their sweetness and bite-size pieces), fresh basil leaves, mozzarella cheese (either the soft, creamy type or the harder, more traditional mozzarella, whichever you prefer), and a drizzle of olive oil for added depth of flavor. For practical substitutions, you could use other types of cheese like parmesan for an added salty kick, or different herbs like oregano for a slightly different flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your toppings. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Rinse the basil leaves and chop them into smaller pieces. If using a homemade pizza crust, now is the time to roll it out to your desired thickness.
2. Step 2: Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone that has been sprinkled with a bit of cornmeal to prevent sticking. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza, making sure to stay within the borders.
3. Step 3: Add the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese, followed by a sprinkle of chopped basil. You can arrange the toppings in a pattern that appeals to you or simply scatter them across the pizza for a more rustic look.
4. Step 4: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Handy Tips

• When working with fresh tomatoes, it’s a good idea to pat them dry with a paper towel after cutting to remove excess moisture, which can make them release less water during baking and result in a crisper crust.
• Don’t overload the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy. The simplicity of this pizza is part of its charm, so keep the toppings light and balanced.
• Consider using a variety of tomato for a mix of flavors and textures. For example, combining cherry tomatoes with sliced larger tomatoes can add depth to the pizza.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking this pizza is 425°F (220°C), which helps the crust cook quickly and prevents it from becoming too crispy or burnt. The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the crust, but generally, 15-20 minutes is sufficient. Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes of baking to ensure the crust doesn’t overcook. Signs of doneness include a golden brown crust and melted, bubbly cheese.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor is crucial for this pizza. The crust should be crispy on the bottom and edges, while remaining slightly soft in the center. To achieve this, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and consider baking the pizza on a pizza stone, which can help crisp up the crust. Also, don’t overload the pizza with toppings, as excess moisture can prevent the crust from crisping up properly.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, try pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This step, known as “pre-cooking” the crust, can help it hold its shape and crisp up nicely.
• Use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the cheese and tomatoes. Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your pizza.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of flour for your homemade crust. For example, using a bit of whole wheat flour can add nutty flavor and extra nutrition.

Storage Tips

• If you have leftovers, the best way to store them is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pizza can be reheated in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat it.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the pizza. Assemble the pizza up to the point of baking, then freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• The shelf life of the pizza is a few days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Always check the pizza for signs of spoilage before consuming, such as an off smell or slimy texture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This pizza makes a wonderful gift, especially when packaged thoughtfully. Consider placing slices of the pizza in a decorative tin or box, wrapped in parchment paper or aluminum foil. Add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. You could also include a side of marinara sauce or a green salad for a complete meal. Wrap the box in a ribbon or twine and add a handwritten note for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or some dried oregano for a more traditional Italian flavor.
• Creative toppings: Consider adding some caramelized onions or bell peppers for added sweetness, or some prosciutto for a salty, savory flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Swap out the mozzarella for feta cheese and add some kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired pizza, or use goat cheese and figs for a sweet and savory combination.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the crust turns out too soggy, it may be due to overloading the pizza with toppings or not baking it at a high enough temperature. Try reducing the toppings or increasing the oven temperature.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute it with dried basil or even oregano. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes of baking. If the crust is getting too brown, it may be overcooking. Conversely, if the cheese isn’t melted and bubbly, it may need a few more minutes in the oven.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Assemble the pizza up to the point of baking, then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Is it gluten-free? If you’re using a traditional wheat-based crust, the answer is no. However, you can easily make a gluten-free crust using gluten-free flours like rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re making multiple pizzas.

Conclusion

This pizza with tomatoes and basil is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation, it’s the perfect dish for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their culinary routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this pizza is sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative, and make this pizza your own. Share it with friends and family, or enjoy it all by yourself – either way, it’s sure to be a hit.