Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup of basil pesto
- 1/2 cup of cooked shredded beef
- 1/4 cup of sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup of sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Pizza pan or baking sheet
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. Place the pre-made pizza crust on a pizza pan or baking sheet.
3. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the pizza crust.
4. Sprinkle the shredded beef, sliced red onions, and black olives over the pesto.
5. Top the pizza with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
425°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of basil pesto, you can use sun-dried tomato pesto or garlic pesto.
- Instead of shredded beef, you can use cooked chicken or sliced sausage.
- Instead of red onions, you can use sliced green onions or caramelized onions.
- Instead of black olives, you can use sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
- Instead of mozzarella cheese, you can use provolone cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Top the pizza with arugula or spinach leaves for a healthy twist.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza for a tangy and sweet finish.
Tips and tricks:
- Preheat the oven before placing the pizza in to ensure even cooking.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispy crust.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the toppings from sliding off.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the leftover pizza on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pizza on a wooden board or pizza stone for a rustic look.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Chopped parsley
- Balsamic glaze
Pairings:
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
- Red wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Caprese salad
- Antipasto platter
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is soggy, bake the pizza for a few more minutes or place it on a wire rack to cool.
- If the cheese is not melted, broil the pizza for a few minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Pizza originated in Naples, Italy in the 18th century and has since become a popular dish worldwide.
Flavor profiles:
- The basil pesto adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the pizza, while the shredded beef provides a savory and meaty taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pizza hot and fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian