Name: Pistachio and Herb Sfincione Pizza
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Sicilian cuisine
Ingredients: 500 g pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, for a 9x13 inch pan); 0.5 cup pistachios (shelled, unsalted, roughly chopped); 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 0.25 cup fresh basil (chopped); 2 pcs large onions (sliced thinly); 1 cup crushed tomatoes (from a can); 2 pcs garlic cloves (minced); 3 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing); 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste); 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)

A rectangular Pistachio and Herb Sfincione Pizza, freshly baked and presented on a warm wooden board. The thick, focaccia-like crust is golden brown, topped with a rich red tomato and onion sauce, and generously adorned with vibrant green chopped pistachios, fresh parsley, and basil, creating a colorful and inviting appearance.

Imagine a slice of Sicilian sunshine, transformed into a comforting, savory pizza. This Pistachio and Herb Sfincione Pizza is a vibrant reinterpretation of a beloved classic, offering a delightful departure from the traditional. Sfincione, meaning 'thick sponge,' is Sicily's answer to focaccia, a wonderfully airy yet substantial crust that forms the perfect foundation for bold flavors. While classic Sfincione often features anchovies and caciocavallo, this recipe embraces a fresh, herbaceous character with the unexpected crunch of toasted pistachios. You'll layer a rich, slow-cooked tomato and onion sauce over the pillowy dough, then adorn it with a generous scattering of earthy pistachios, aromatic parsley, and fragrant basil. The result? A stunning pizza that's both comforting and exciting, with a satisfying textural interplay between the soft crust, simmering sauce, and crisp nuts. It’s a celebration of Sicilian culinary heritage with a modern, bright twist, inviting you to create a truly memorable meal that's perfect for a gathering or a special weeknight treat. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones with this unique culinary creation.

Preparation time: 30 min
Cooking time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Servings: 6

Instructions

Pistachio and Herb Sfincione Pizza

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with olive oil.
2In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the sliced onions until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4Press or roll out the pizza dough into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan, stretching it to fit the edges. If the dough springs back, let it rest for 5-10 minutes and try again.
5Spread the cooled tomato and onion sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios, fresh parsley, and fresh basil over the sauce. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
6Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbling. The Sfincione should have a delightful focaccia-like texture.
7Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your unique take on Sfincione!

Instructions

Pistachio and Herb Sfincione Pizza

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with olive oil.
2In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the sliced onions until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4Press or roll out the pizza dough into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan, stretching it to fit the edges. If the dough springs back, let it rest for 5-10 minutes and try again.
5Spread the cooled tomato and onion sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios, fresh parsley, and fresh basil over the sauce. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
6Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbling. The Sfincione should have a delightful focaccia-like texture.
7Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your unique take on Sfincione!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 451 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 20 g
Carbs: 56 g

Nutrient	Per serving
Calories	451 kcal
Protein	12 g
Fat	20 g
Carbs	56 g

Tips

For extra crunch, lightly toast the chopped pistachios in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before sprinkling on the pizza.
Don't rush the baking; ensure the crust is golden and firm for authentic Sfincione texture.
A sprinkle of Pecorino Romano cheese enhances the flavor profile before serving.