Appetizer

Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza

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.

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.

Print

Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza

A unique blend of sweet and savory, this pizza features creamy ricotta cheese, juicy blackberries, and fresh basil for a refreshing twist. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish for summer dining.
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Fusion, Italian
Keyword basil, blackberry pizza, gourmet pizza, ricotta, sweet and savory
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 slices
Calories 320kcal

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

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C), or follow the directions for your specific pizza 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.
  • Evenly spread ricotta cheese over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
  • Scatter blackberries evenly over the ricotta.
  • Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the blackberries.
  • Drizzle the pizza with olive oil and season with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.
  • 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.
  • Let the pizza cool slightly before drizzling it with balsamic glaze (optional). Slice and serve warm.

Notes

For an added touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal
Published by
aspic791

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