Name: Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn); 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper (to taste); balsamic glaze (optional)

This unique pizza blends the creamy texture of ricotta cheese, the sweetness of fresh blackberries, and the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a sophisticated yet simple dish. The olive oil drizzle adds richness, and a touch of balsamic glaze (if desired) gives it a tangy-sweet finish. Perfect for a gourmet twist on pizza night, this recipe pairs beautifully with a light salad or a glass of white wine. Enjoy the medley of flavors in each bite!

Why You’ll Love It:

Flavor Harmony: The sweet and juicy blackberries pair beautifully with the creamy ricotta and the fresh, slightly peppery basil.
Easy to Make: With a few simple steps, this gourmet-style pizza comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights or impromptu get-togethers.
Showstopper: The vibrant colors of the blackberries and basil create a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Customizable: This pizza can easily be tailored to fit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Key Ingredients:

Pizza Dough: Whether you use homemade or store-bought dough, make sure it’s at room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling. If you’re up for making it from scratch, try a simple overnight ferment dough for extra flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Full-fat ricotta will give the pizza a richer, creamier base. To elevate the flavor, consider mixing the ricotta with a touch of lemon zest and a pinch of salt before spreading it on the dough.
Blackberries: Fresh, ripe blackberries work best as they provide a burst of sweetness. If blackberries are out of season, try substituting with other berries like raspberries or sliced figs for a twist.
Basil Leaves: Torn basil adds a fresh, herbaceous touch. Make sure to tear the leaves by hand rather than cutting them, as this helps preserve their flavor and appearance.
Balsamic Glaze: This optional finishing touch adds a tangy-sweet depth that complements the berries. You can find pre-made balsamic glaze at most grocery stores or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until syrupy.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C), or follow the directions for your specific pizza dough.

Prepare the Dough:
Roll out your pizza dough to the desired thickness on a lightly floured surface.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.

Spread the Ricotta:
Evenly spread ricotta cheese over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

Add the Blackberries:
Scatter blackberries evenly over the ricotta.

Add the Basil:
Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the blackberries.

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Season and Drizzle:
Drizzle the pizza with olive oil.
Season with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Bake:
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbling.

Finish and Serve:
Let the pizza cool slightly before drizzling it with balsamic glaze (optional).
Slice and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions:

This pizza is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to turn it into a memorable meal:

Serve with Salad: Pair it with a crisp arugula salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Accompaniments: A glass of chilled rosé or a sparkling lemonade complements the fruity notes beautifully.
Appetizer Option: Cut into small squares and serve as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party.

Storage/Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on a baking stone or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crisp crust.
Freezing: Although fresh is best, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Simply assemble the pizza on a piece of parchment paper, place it on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen pizza to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Make Ahead: Prep the dough in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

Variations:

Goat Cheese Twist: Swap out ricotta for goat cheese for a tangier bite.
Honey Drizzle: Skip the balsamic glaze and finish the pizza with a light drizzle of honey for a sweeter touch.
Prosciutto Addition: Lay thin slices of prosciutto over the ricotta before baking for a touch of savory, salty contrast.
Herbed Ricotta: Mix chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the ricotta for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios after baking for a pleasant crunch and richness.

Conclusion:

This Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza is a testament to how creative combinations can yield incredible results. The balance of flavors is refreshing and satisfying, making it a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or share it as a standout appetizer, it’s bound to be a hit.