A stunning Smoked Mozzarella Margherita Pizza with Basil Pesto, presented on a rustic wooden board. The pizza, sliced into wedges, features a perfectly golden, blistered crust, rich red tomato sauce, and beautifully melted smoked mozzarella. Vibrant green dollops of fresh basil pesto are artfully placed across the top, alongside scattered fresh basil leaves, suggesting a gourmet and aromatic meal

Smoked Mozzarella Margherita Pizza with Basil Pesto

Italian cuisine

Smoked Mozzarella Margherita Pizza with Basil Pesto

Transport your taste buds to Italy with a delightful twist on the beloved Margherita pizza! This Smoked Mozzarella Margherita Pizza with Basil Pesto takes the traditional Neapolitan-style pizza to new heights by introducing a sophisticated smoked mozzarella and a vibrant homemade basil pesto. Originating from Naples, the classic Margherita embodies Italian simplicity and culinary artistry, typically featuring San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil—ingredients that mirror the colors of the Italian flag. Our interpretation maintains this heritage while infusing unique flavors. The rich, earthy smokiness of the mozzarella provides a captivating contrast to the sweet tang of the San Marzano tomatoes, creating a deeper, more complex flavor profile. Dollops of bright, herbaceous basil pesto, made with fresh basil, pungent garlic, toasty pine nuts, and fruity olive oil, are added after baking, ensuring their fresh, aromatic notes truly shine. This recipe encourages you to embrace the joy of pizza-making, from working with a simple, quick pizza dough to lovingly assembling each component. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you crave something special but approachable, or for entertaining guests who appreciate a thoughtful culinary journey. Get ready for a textural feast: a perfectly blistered, slightly chewy crust, melting smoked cheese, and the fresh burst of pesto in every bite. This isn't just a pizza; it's an experience designed to be shared and savored, bringing a taste of authentic, yet innovated, Italian cuisine to your table.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
15 min
Total time
45 min
Servings
4

Ingredients

Pizza

  • 1lb pizza dough(store-bought or homemade)
  • 14 1/2oz san marzano tomatoes(crushed or whole, pureed)
  • 8oz smoked mozzarella(shredded or thinly sliced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper(freshly ground)

Basil Pesto

  • 2 cup fresh basil(packed)
  • 2 pcs garlic(cloves, peeled)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts(toasted)
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese(grated)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil(extra virgin)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Prepare the Pesto

  1. 1Combine fresh basil, garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
  2. 2With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the Pizza

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking steel inside, if using, for at least 30 minutes. If not using, preheat a baking sheet.
  2. 2In a bowl, mix the San Marzano tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  3. 3On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape (approximately 12-14 inches).
  4. 4Carefully transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.
  5. 5Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Distribute the smoked mozzarella over the sauce.
  6. 6Slide the pizza (with the parchment paper if using) onto the preheated pizza stone/baking steel or baking sheet.
  7. 7Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly charred in spots.
  8. 8Remove the pizza from the oven. Immediately dollop generous spoonfuls of the prepared basil pesto over the hot pizza.
  9. 9Slice and serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories
450 kcal
Protein
18 g
Fat
22 g
Carbs
45 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories450 kcal
Protein18 g
Fat22 g
Carbs45 g

Tips

  • Ensure your pizza dough is at room temperature before stretching—it will be much more pliable and easier to work with.
  • For an extra crispy crust, preheat your pizza stone or steel for at least 30-60 minutes before baking the pizza.
  • A sprinkle of chili flakes can add a delightful kick, enhancing the smoky notes of the mozzarella.