Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Why it’s essential: This forms the base of our pizza, providing a delicious and chewy foundation for the toppings. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try using cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option.
For the pesto sauce:
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Why it’s essential: This vibrant green sauce adds a burst of flavor that makes this pizza special. The basil brings freshness, while the nuts and cheese in the pesto add depth.
For the toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Why it’s essential: Melty cheese brings everything together and adds that comforting texture we all love. It’s gooey, stretchy, and enhances the overall experience.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Why it’s essential: These add a pop of color and sweetness to balance the flavors. They also provide a juicy burst that complements the pesto.
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- Why it’s essential: Their crunch and sweetness enhance the overall texture of the pizza. You can use a mix of colors for a visually striking dish.
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- Why it’s essential: These provide a savory contrast and contribute to the “witchy” look of the pizza. They add a hint of saltiness that rounds out the flavors.
- Optional: Edible flowers or microgreens for garnish
- Why it’s essential: They add a whimsical touch, perfect for a Halloween-themed dish. Plus, they elevate the presentation and impress your guests.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure your crust turns golden and crispy, providing a delightful texture.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; rustic edges can add to the charm! Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the Pesto: In a bowl, take your basil pesto and spread it evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If you like a stronger flavor, feel free to add a bit more pesto.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto layer. Make sure to cover the pesto evenly for a delicious cheesy experience in every bite.
- Top with Veggies: Arrange the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and black olives artfully on top of the cheese. Feel free to get creative with the placement! You can even create fun patterns or shapes for a more festive look.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and rotate the pizza halfway through for even cooking.
- Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool slightly. If desired, garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a whimsical touch. This step adds an extra layer of magic to your pizza.
- Slice and Serve: Cut your pizza into slices and serve warm. Enjoy the fun and flavors! Don’t forget to snap a picture before digging in—you’ll want to remember this beautiful creation!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 12g