| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 545 | 35.7g | 11.6g | 41.5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10.2g | 2.3g | 17.8g | 1.02g |
When it comes to food, nothing warms my heart more than a dish that harmonizes tradition with a touch of the unexpected. That’s precisely what the Paracress Pesto Pizza does. This recipe highlights paracress, also known as buzz buttons, a slightly peppery herb that brings not only texture but also a unique flavor surprise to this delightful, vegetable-based pizza.
The Shout Out to Our Health
Aside from its enticing profile, our Paracress Pesto Pizza also boasts considerable health benefits. The paracress, with its high antioxidant content, is notably beneficial for gum health. Plus, garlic and olive oil are both tremendous heart-healthy ingredients, and the fresh, mixed berries provide a burst of vitamins and fiber.
A Touch of the Familiar and Fantastic
A bite into this pizza is reminiscent of the classic Margherita drizzled with pesto, but the fun doesn’t stop there. The playful addition of mixed berries adds a delightful sweetness, flawlessly contrasting the savory profile of the rest of the pizza. It’s very similar to fruit-topped flatbreads you might encounter in trendy farmer’s market cooking or upscale brunch spots.
If you’re planning a meal, this pizza works exceptionally well served alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. And if dessert is on your mind, a simple bowl of fresh berries will draw out the similar flavors in the pizza while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
As a Louisiana native with a French lineage, I can’t help but appreciate the blend of flavors and the pizza’s playful elegance. Each ingredient works in harmony, creating a sort of gustatory maestro that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. As a lover of both Creole richness and French elegance, I can confidently say that this Paracress Pesto Pizza recipe has stolen a pizza my heart.
For those interested in more delightfully unique pizza adventures, check out Italian Gourmet Pizza Collection for some inspiration. Can’t get enough of paracress? Explore Gardening Know How guide to learn more about this unique herb.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pizza dough, ready-made
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups paracress (buzz buttons), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 1/4 cup honey
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While your oven is preheating, roll out your ready-made pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your chosen pizza stone or large baking sheet.
Step Two
Brush the pizza dough with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help create a crispy crust.
Step Three
In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped paracress, minced garlic, pine nuts, grated parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Blend or process until the mixture forms a smooth pesto sauce.
Step Four
Evenly spread the paracress pesto sauce on the prepared pizza dough, leaving a small crust around the edges.
Step Five
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto sauce.
Step Six
Place your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
Step Seven
While the pizza is baking, prep your mixed berries by washing them and if using strawberries, slicing them.
Step Eight
When the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and immediately top it with fresh basil leaves. Then, evenly spread the mixed berries over the top of the pizza.
Step Nine
Drizzle the honey over the mixed berries and basil. Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before cutting into slices and serving. Enjoy your Paracress Pesto Pizza!
