Description
This Toasted Walnut Pesto and Caramelized Nectarine Pizza with Spicy Balsamic Drizzle is a delightful gourmet vegetarian pizza that combines a crispy, golden crust with a rich walnut pesto, sweet caramelized nectarines, and creamy cheeses. The spicy balsamic reduction adds a perfect tangy kick, making it a perfect summer fusion dish bursting with fresh and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base:
- 1 ball (about 12 oz) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toasted Walnut Pesto:
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Caramelized Nectarines:
- 2 ripe nectarines, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Spicy Balsamic Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat thoroughly. Lightly flour your work surface and stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 10- to 12-inch circle. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and set aside.
- Make Walnut Pesto: In a food processor, pulse together toasted walnuts, fresh basil, grated Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth but retains some texture. Set this flavorful pesto aside.
- Caramelize Nectarines: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the sliced nectarines along with honey and a pinch of salt. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the nectarines are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble and Bake Pizza: Carefully transfer the stretched dough onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of the walnut pesto evenly over the base. Top with shredded mozzarella, the caramelized nectarines, and crumbled goat cheese. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Spicy Balsamic Drizzle: While the pizza bakes, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 5–6 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle it with the spicy balsamic reduction. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice the pizza and serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute nectarines with peaches or plums for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- For a nut-free pesto alternative, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts.
- The spicy balsamic drizzle can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 of pizza)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
