Description
This Pesto Caprese Puff Pastry Pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring flaky puff pastry topped with fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh basil and optional balsamic glaze, it’s perfect for a light main course or a flavorful vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base and Spread
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
- ¼ cup basil pesto
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a floured surface, lightly roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth out creases and slightly enlarge it, then transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
- Score Puff Pastry Border: Using a sharp knife, gently score a ½-inch border around the edge of the pastry, taking care not to cut through completely. This border helps create a raised crust.
- Prick Center Area: Prick the center area inside the scored border with a fork to prevent it from puffing up excessively during baking.
- Spread Basil Pesto: Evenly spread the basil pesto within the scored border to form the flavorful base of your pizza.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes over the pesto layer evenly.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle the olive oil over the toppings and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Finish with Parmesan and Garnish: Immediately after baking, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot pizza. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor contrast.
- Serve: Slice the pizza and serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste.
Notes
- For extra crispness, you can bake the puff pastry for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.
- Store-bought or homemade pesto can be used according to your preference.
- For a creamier texture, substitute mozzarella with burrata cheese.
