The BEST Strawberry Pizza

If you’re looking for a unique and delightful appetizer that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for The BEST Strawberry Pizza is a favorite in my house, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Imagine a pizza that combines the freshness of strawberries with savory elements like caramelized onions and turkey—it’s a sweet, salty, and savory explosion of flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering or just want something fun for dinner on a busy weeknight, this strawberry pizza is perfect for any occasion!

What I adore about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You can whip it up any time, and the combination of flavors will have your friends asking for seconds. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving it time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this beautiful pizza on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet strawberries paired with savory toppings.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the dough and toppings ahead of time, so you’re ready to bake when hunger strikes.
• Endless flavor combinations: This recipe is versatile; feel free to mix and match toppings based on what you have at home.
• Impressive presentation: Serve this pizza at gatherings, and watch everyone marvel at its vibrant colors!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe not just delicious but also approachable. Here’s what you’ll need to create The BEST Strawberry Pizza:

For the Dough

• 5 cups flour
• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 pkg)
• 1/4 cup olive oil plus more for when the dough is rising
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cornmeal

Toppings

• 2 cups strawberries chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 10 pizza crust
• 1/4 cup strawberry sauce
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup caramelized onions (about one onion)
• 6 strawberries (sliced)
• 1 ball fresh mozzarella
• 4 pieces turkey slices
• 1/4 cup basil (thinly sliced)
• Sprinkle maldon salt (or other finishing salt)
• Drizzle balsamic reduction

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even a hearty plant-based protein instead of turkey for a different flavor.
• Add more fruit: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of sweetness.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust if you’re catering to those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make The BEST Strawberry Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining lukewarm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit until bubbly, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step activates the yeast and ensures your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In the same bowl, add flour, olive oil, salt, and cornmeal. Stir until everything comes together into a soft dough. Knead it gently on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Kneading helps develop gluten, giving your crust that perfect chew!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 30 minutes. This step is crucial; allowing the dough to rise creates lightness in your crust.

Step 4: Prepare Toppings

While your dough rises, chop strawberries and combine them with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a bowl. This mixture will macerate beautifully while you prepare your other toppings.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). A hot oven is essential for getting that crispy crust we all crave!

Step 6: Assemble Your Pizza

Roll out your risen dough onto a floured surface into a large circle or rectangle—whatever shape suits your fancy! Spread the strawberry sauce evenly over the base. Then layer on ricotta cheese followed by caramelized onions.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Now it’s time for those chopped strawberries! Scatter them over the pizza along with sliced turkey and fresh mozzarella. Finish off with basil leaves; their aromatic flavor will elevate every bite.

Step 8: Bake Your Creation

Transfer your assembled pizza onto a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal (this prevents sticking). Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it!

Step 9: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, drizzle balsamic reduction over the top and sprinkle with maldon salt to enhance those gorgeous flavors.

And there you have it—the BEST Strawberry Pizza! Slice it up, serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Strawberry Pizza

Making this delightful strawberry pizza is a breeze, especially with a few insider tips to take it to the next level!

• Use fresh strawberries – Fresh strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your dish, making it visually appealing and delicious.
• Let the dough rise properly – Allowing your dough to rise adequately ensures a fluffy crust. This extra step gives you that perfect texture, making each bite heavenly.
• Don’t skip the caramelized onions – These sweet and savory onions add depth of flavor to your pizza, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
• Experiment with cheeses – While fresh mozzarella is fantastic, trying other cheeses like goat cheese or feta can bring unique flavors and creaminess to your pizza.
• Drizzle with balsamic reduction just before serving – This finishing touch adds an exquisite tang that elevates the overall taste, adding that gourmet feel to your homemade creation.

How to Serve The BEST Strawberry Pizza

Presentation is key when serving this beautiful dish! The bright colors and unique toppings will impress your guests whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a fancy dinner party.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – Sprinkling whole basil leaves on top enhances both the presentation and the flavor profile of your pizza.
• Chopped nuts (like pistachios or almonds) – A handful of chopped nuts introduces a delightful crunch and nuttiness, contrasting nicely with the soft texture of the pizza.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with arugula, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the sweet notes of the pizza while providing a refreshing balance.
• Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add both color and nutrition alongside your pizza.
• Creamy Avocado Dip with Veggies – A smooth avocado dip served with crunchy veggie sticks is a fantastic appetizer that pairs well with the sweet flavors of strawberry pizza.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create not just a meal but an experience that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of your homemade strawberry pizza!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for The BEST Strawberry Pizza is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat anytime. You can easily store leftovers or even prepare some components in advance for a quick assembly later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but this may result in a softer crust.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about The BEST Strawberry Pizza that might help you out!

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries for this pizza?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with strawberries, you can experiment with other fruits such as peaches, blueberries, or raspberries. Just keep an eye on the sugar levels if you’re using sweeter fruits.

How can I make The BEST Strawberry Pizza dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version of The BEST Strawberry Pizza, substitute the ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew cream. You can also replace fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese options available in stores.

What type of crust is best for The BEST Strawberry Pizza?

A thin and crispy crust works wonderfully for The BEST Strawberry Pizza. You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch as outlined in this recipe. The key is achieving that balance between crunchy and soft!

How can I enhance the flavor of my strawberry topping?

To elevate the flavor of your strawberry topping, consider adding a pinch of salt along with lemon juice and sugar. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries and add depth to your pizza.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making The BEST Strawberry Pizza! It’s such a unique combination of flavors that truly delights the palate. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a quick snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family!