The Never Ending World Of Pizza Toppings
Choosing your own toppings is one of the best things about making your own pizza. Start with something traditional like pepperoni or cheese, then experiment with something really different and exotic. Pizza is meant to be fun!
For example, think of all the amazing options when you make a vegetarian pizza. You have all the normal choices like onions, peppers, mushrooms and olives, but you can also try something unusual. Slip in some fresh peas, thinly sliced squash or eggplant. Add some caramelized onion, roasted veggies and garlic for a delicious variation. Go on, be daring!
Have fun with the many types of pizza you can create. Let your imagination be your guide. When making a thin crust pizza, the only limitation is the strength of the crust. A deep dish pizza can handle a lot of toppings piled high. They may need extra baking time, but you can make one where each slice is a meal.
When you study history of pizza, you will see they started with a few of their favorite toppings. One of the first pizzas ever made featured basil, tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Known as Pizza Marghareta, it was named in honor of Italian royalty. The ingredients were specially chosen because they had the same colors as the Italian flag. Pick a theme if you wish to make your next pizza.
When it comes to cheese, you can mix as many varieties as you wish. The different flavors of the cheeses blend together when they melt, creating a depth of flavor you cannot get at a restaurant. Combine smoked gouda with provolone, mozzarella and parmesan for a traditional, yet tasty topping. For something a little out of the ordinary, add some blue or goat cheese into the mix. Gorgonzola or Stilton make unusual, yet delicious choices for a gourmet pizza.
You may think you’re nuts about pizza, but what about nuts on your pizza? Nuts can add a whole new depth to pizza with their crunchy nature. Pine nuts are an excellent choice for most traditional pizzas. If you are making one with an Asian theme, try adding some roasted peanuts.
Have you heard of dessert pizza? You can easily make a fruit pizza recipe using baked cookie dough for the crust. Top with cream cheese and your favorite fruit to make a delicious, refreshing summer treat. You can also add fruit to a traditional pizza. Pineapple, apple slices, peaches and many other fruits that bake well are excellent choices.
Even traditional meat eaters can make something more of their pizza toppings. Think past pepperoni and sausage. Imagine a delicious venison pizza, or perhaps one with roasted duck breast. Try topping a pizza with some of your other favorite recipes like buffalo chicken or pot roast. Seafood pizzas are not common in most restaurants. You can easily make one with smoked salmon or tuna. Add shrimp, oysters or crab and serve it up as a new gourmet experience. Use a compatible sauce. If you can’t think of one, drizzle some oil over the top or sprinkle it with a bit of cheese. Throw all the rules out the window when you make your own pizza.
