Caprese Pizza Recipe
You’ll discover that making an authentic Caprese pizza isn’t just about tossing ingredients on dough. This cherished Italian recipe transforms simple elements – fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil – into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a novice cook or seasoned chef, mastering this classic brings the essence of Naples right to your kitchen. Let’s explore how these few quality ingredients come together to create a pizza that’s both elegant and irresistibly rustic.
Overview
- Preheat oven to 450°F with a pizza stone, then stretch room-temperature pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on parchment paper.
- Pre-bake olive oil-brushed crust for 5 minutes before adding sliced fresh mozzarella as the first topping layer.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes (patted dry) and fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella before final baking.
- Total nutrition per slice averages 220 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbs, and 10g fat.
- For best results, use room-temperature mozzarella and high-quality olive oil, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed.
Classic Italian Caprese Pizza: A Fresh Mediterranean Favorite
A beloved Italian classic reimagined as a pizza, this Caprese combines the Mediterranean trinity of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil. The result is a light, fresh pizza that captures the essence of Italian summer dining, delivering a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors on a crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-inch) pizza dough
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with pizza stone or baking sheet inside
- Stretch pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on parchment paper
- Brush dough with 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pre-bake crust for 5 minutes
- Remove from oven and layer with mozzarella slices
- Add halved cherry tomatoes
- Season with salt and pepper
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles
- Remove from oven and immediately add fresh basil leaves
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and remaining olive oil
- Slice and serve hot
Top Tips
- Use room temperature mozzarella for even melting
- Pat tomatoes dry before adding to prevent soggy crust
- Tear larger basil leaves for better distribution
- Allow dough to come to room temperature before stretching
- Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor
- Pre-bake crust to ensure proper structure
Variations
- Margherita Style: Use San Marzano tomato sauce instead of fresh tomatoes
- Prosciutto Addition: Top with thin slices of prosciutto after baking
- White Caprese: Skip tomatoes and use burrata cheese instead
- Grilled Version: Cook on a preheated grill for smoky flavor
- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat pizza dough for added nutrition
Nutritional Guide
| Per Slice (1/8 pizza) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Additional Nutritional Notes:
This pizza provides calcium from mozzarella, lycopene from tomatoes, and beneficial oils from olive oil. It’s lower in calories than traditional meat-topped pizzas while offering good protein content. Whole wheat variation adds extra fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh Basil Leaves?
While you can use dried basil, you’ll sacrifice some quality and fresh flavor. For the best experience, stick with fresh basil leaves. Dried basil’s concentrated flavor won’t give you that authentic, aromatic experience you’re seeking.
How Long Can Leftover Caprese Pizza Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
You’ll want to store your leftover pizza in an airtight container at 40°F or below. When properly refrigerated, you can enjoy it for up to 4 days, though it’s best within the first 2 days.
Is It Possible to Make Caprese Pizza Without Mozzarella Cheese?
You can definitely make a delicious pizza without mozzarella! Try substitute cheese options like vegan cheese, ricotta, or burrata. Keep the classic basil flavors, or explore basil alternatives like arugula or spinach for variety.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Crust From Getting Soggy?
You’ll get a perfectly crispy crust when you bake at a higher temperature (450-500°F) and use a preheated pizza stone. Don’t forget to pat your toppings dry to prevent extra moisture from seeping down.
Can Caprese Pizza Be Prepared and Frozen for Later Use?
You’ll get the best results by pre-baking the crust before freezing your caprese pizza. Just add fresh toppings when you’re ready to bake – it’s a great way to have this favorite ready anytime.
Before You Go
You’ll find that Caprese pizza perfectly captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its harmonious blend of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Whether you’re serving it at a casual lunch or elegant dinner, this Mediterranean favorite won’t disappoint. By following these simple steps and using quality ingredients, you’ve mastered a timeless pizza that celebrates the pure, vibrant flavors of Italy.
