Prosciutto Pesto Pizza Recipe

All About Prosciutto Pizza

Welcome to a culinary delicacy that's simple to make and easy to love - Prosciutto Pizza! This beloved Italian dish brings together the richness of cured prosciutto and the perfect accompaniment of pizza ingredients. We'll also learn about the art of making prosciutto pizza, including the best time to add the prosciutto, which additional ingredients to use and whether balsamic is a proper companion for this savory delight.

Prosciutto Placement

One of the most frequently asked questions about prosciutto pizza is when to add the slices of prosciutto - before or after baking? The answer is simple: prosciutto is traditionally added after the pizza has been baked. This allows the meat to retain its tender texture and ensures it doesn't overcook or become chewy during the cooking process. By adding it at the end, you preserve the distinct flavor and delightful saltiness that prosciutto is known for, while allowing it to slightly warm from the residual heat of the pizza. With today's quick-cooking portable pizza ovens, however, you can add the prosciutto before baking and cover it with other toppings to retain the integrity of its flavor and texture.

Prosciutto Pizza Ingredients

Pizza with prosciutto is a culinary favorite that combines carefully selected ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. Here are the main components of this mouthwatering dish:

• ● Pizza Dough: The foundation of any pizza starts with a well-made dough. Whether you prefer a thin and crispy crust or a pillowy and soft base, the choice is yours. Find a classic pizza dough recipe or experiment with packaged mixes and variations like whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit your preferences.
• ● Sauce: A tangy tomato or pesto sauce serves as the canvas for your prosciutto pizza. For a classic tomato pizza sauce, simmer fresh tomatoes with garlic, basil, oregano and a hint of olive oil to create a vibrant sauce that complements the other ingredients.
• ● Cheese: For a traditional prosciutto pizza, mozzarella is the cheese of choice. Its mild and creamy flavor beautifully complements the saltiness of the prosciutto. But feel free to get creative by adding other cheeses like fontina, gorgonzola or goat cheese for a unique twist.
• ● Prosciutto: The star of the show! Thinly sliced, air-dried prosciutto brings a unique flavor and delicate texture to the pizza. Arrange the prosciutto slices evenly over the baked pizza to ensure you get a burst of flavor with every bite.
• ● Fresh Arugula: To add a burst of freshness and peppery notes, top your prosciutto pizza with a handful of fresh arugula leaves. The slight bitterness of arugula complements the richness of the prosciutto and balances the overall flavor.
• ● Olive Oil: Before serving, drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the pizza to enhance its flavors and add a luscious finishing touch.

Balsamic Vinegar on Prosciutto Pizza

Balsamic vinegar is a beloved companion for many dishes. The decision to include it on your pizza comes down to personal preference! The natural saltiness and umami of prosciutto harmonize beautifully with the sweetness and acidity of balsamic vinegar. For a flavor contrast, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or reduction can elevate the taste by adding a subtle tang and hint of sweetness. This addition provides a delightful balance to the rich flavors of prosciutto, cheese and tomato sauce.

Exercise moderation when using balsamic vinegar on your prosciutto pizza. Too much can overpower the delicate flavors of the ingredients and disrupt the overall balance. Start with a small amount and gradually add more if desired, tasting as you go to ensure the perfect balance is achieved.

If you prefer to keep your prosciutto pizza simple and focused on the interplay between prosciutto, cheese and tomato, you can skip the balsamic altogether. Prosciutto pizza is versatile and allows you to personalize your pie according to your taste preferences.

Now Make Your Own Pizza

Prosciutto pizza is a culinary favorite that brings together the best of Italian cuisine. The key ingredients of prosciutto pizza, including the dough, tomato sauce, cheese, prosciutto, fresh arugula and optional balsamic, come together to create a terrific combo of flavors.

Whether you choose to add a touch of balsamic or keep it simple, prosciutto pizza is a delightful indulgence that pleases guests and satisfies the cravings of pizza and prosciutto lovers alike. Experiment with different variations, such as adding additional toppings like mushrooms, pesto sauce or caramelized onions, to create your own signature pie. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and take a culinary adventure that celebrates the incredible combination of prosciutto and pizza.