Pesto Pizza with Feta Stuffed Crust Recipe

Are you looking for a unique twist on the classic pizza? This Pesto Pizza with Feta Stuffed Crust is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The rich, savory pesto sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy feta cheese in the crust, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite. This recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Pesto Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 3 garlic cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pizza:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto Sauce

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a large circle. Place it on a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Stuff the Crust: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese around the edges of the dough. Fold the edges over the cheese and press to seal, creating a stuffed crust.
4. Add the Pesto Sauce: Spread a generous layer of pesto sauce over the center of the dough, avoiding the stuffed crust.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto sauce. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, black olives, and red onions on top.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza and serve it hot. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors from the pesto sauce and feta-stuffed crust.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Garlic Knots: These make a great accompaniment and can be made with leftover pizza dough.

Beverages

• Red Wine: A glass of your favorite red wine can enhance the flavors of the pizza.
• Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing lemonade is a great choice.

Conclusion

This Pesto Pizza with Feta Stuffed Crust is a delightful twist on a traditional pizza. The combination of the savory pesto sauce and the tangy feta cheese in the crust creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s an easy and fun recipe to make, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Give it a try, and enjoy a new favorite pizza night recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough can be a convenient option if you’re short on time.

2. What other cheeses can I use for the stuffed crust?

Mozzarella or cheddar cheese are great alternatives to feta for the stuffed crust.

3. Can I make the pesto sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The pesto sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

5. Can I add meat to this pizza?

Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or pepperoni can be added for an extra protein boost.

Yield: 8

Pesto Pizza with Feta Stuffed Crust Recipe

Print

Are you looking for a unique twist on the classic pizza? This Pesto Pizza with Feta Stuffed Crust is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The rich, savory pesto sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy feta cheese in the crust, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite. This recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your family and friends. Let's get started!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, grated
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella
• 3/4 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
• 1/3 cup basil pesto, homemade or store bought (recipe for homemade https://bit.ly/37nz5YF)
• 1/2 cup green olives finely chopped
• 1 (16 ounce) jar roasted red peppers drained, and thinly sliced
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese
• 3 ounces pepperoni, sliced

Notes

1. Position the oven rack in the upper 1/3 portion of your oven. Preheat the oven to 500° F. for at least 30 minutes before baking, preferably 1-2 hours ahead. If you have a baking stone, start preheating it.

2. To make the herb seasoning, combine the basil, oregano, grated garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3. Combine the feta, 1/3 cup mozzarella, and 2 tablespoons of the herb seasoning in a bowl.

4. On a lightly floured surface, push/roll the pizza dough out until it is pretty thin (about a 12-14 inch circle). Place the pizza dough on a lightly oiled sheet pan. Arrange the feta cheese mix around the edge of the dough. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, pinching to seal the cheese inside.

5. Spread on the pesto and olives. Sprinkle on 2/3 cup mozzarella, the fontina, and parmesan. Add the red peppers and pepperoni. Sprinkle the remaining herb seasoning over top.

6. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, rotate the pizza, and bake another 3-5 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted. Top the pizza with fresh basil. ENJOY!