Pear pizza offers an unexpected but delightful fusion of flavors, making it a unique addition to any gourmet pizza night. Starting with a fresh, hand-stretched dough, this pizza takes a journey into the sweet and savory world. The dough serves as a canvas for thin slices of juicy, ripe pears, which bring a natural sweetness and soft texture. The pears pair excellently with a rich, creamy blue cheese, adding a punch of bold flavor that complements the fruit’s mildness.
To enhance the overall taste, a sprinkle of fresh arugula after baking adds a peppery note, while a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze introduces a tangy sweetness that ties all the components together. Optionally, toasted walnuts or pecans can be scattered on top for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the soft pear and melting cheese. Pear pizza is not just a meal but an experience, appealing to those who appreciate a culinary adventure on their plate. It’s perfect for an elegant dinner party or a cozy night in, providing a sophisticated twist on the familiar comfort of pizza.
Kitchen Tools Needed
Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet – To bake the pizza evenly.
Rolling Pin – For rolling out the pizza dough.
Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife – To cut the pizza after baking.
Cheese Grater – For freshly grated cheese.
Peeler – To peel the pears if preferred skinless.
Mandoline or Sharp Knife – For thinly slicing the pears.
Mixing Bowl – Useful for mixing ingredients or preparing toppings.
Spoon or Ladle – To apply sauce to the dough, if using.
Oven Mitts – Necessary for handling hot equipment.
Brush – To apply oil or glaze to the crust.
Ingredients for Pear Pizza
Pizza Dough – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
Ripe Pears – 2 medium, thinly sliced
Gorgonzola Cheese – 150 grams, crumbled
Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Fresh Arugula – 1 cup, to garnish after baking
Balsamic Glaze – 2 tablespoons, for drizzling
Walnuts – 1/4 cup, chopped and toasted (optional)
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for brushing the dough
Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning
Fresh Thyme or Rosemary – 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
How To Make Pear Pizza?
Preparing the Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit (245 degrees Celsius). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a round shape about 12 inches in diameter. Brush the surface with olive oil to help the crust crisp up and prevent it from becoming soggy from the toppings.
Assembling the Pizza
Arrange the thinly sliced pears evenly over the dough, creating a single layer that covers most of the surface. Sprinkle the crumbled gorgonzola cheese evenly over the pears, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. This combination of cheeses will give your pizza a lovely creamy texture and a rich flavor.
Baking the Pizza
Transfer the prepared pizza to the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, making it just tender. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness and acidity. If you opted to use them, sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the pizza for an added crunch.
Serving
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the cheese set slightly, making the pizza easier to cut and serve. Slice with a pizza cutter or a sharp knife and enjoy the melding of sweet pear with the tangy and rich cheeses, enhanced by the peppery arugula and the sweet balsamic glaze.
What to serve with Pear Pizza?
Mixed Greens Salad: Complement the sweetness of the pear pizza with a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a vinaigrette. Adding elements like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of seeds can provide a refreshing contrast.
Prosciutto or Salami Plate: For a richer dining experience, serve the pear pizza alongside a plate of thinly sliced prosciutto or salami. The saltiness of the cured meats pairs wonderfully with the sweet and creamy flavors of the pizza.
Roasted Vegetables: Offer a side of roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or beets. The caramelization of the veggies will echo the sweet notes of the pears and add a comforting element to the meal.
Sparkling Wine or Champagne: Enhance your meal with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne. The bubbles and acidity of these beverages work well with both the sweetness of the pears and the richness of the cheese.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip: Provide a small bowl of herb-infused olive oil for dipping crusts. Rosemary, thyme, or basil can add a fragrant touch that complements the flavors of the pizza.
Gelato or Sorbet: Finish the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or vanilla gelato. This cleanses the palate and offers a sweet ending without overpowering the savory experience of the pear pizza.
Health Benefits
Rich in Fiber: Pears are a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and helps in maintaining a healthy weight by keeping you fuller for longer.
Heart Health: The inclusion of arugula and olive oil can be good for the heart. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to reduce bad cholesterol levels. Arugula adds essential vitamins and minerals, which contribute to cardiovascular health.
Antioxidant Properties: Pears and balsamic vinegar provide antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and help maintain overall health.
Calcium and Protein: The cheeses used in pear pizza are good sources of calcium and protein. Calcium is vital for bone health, while protein is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Brain Health: Walnuts, if used as a topping, offer omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for brain health.
Tips and Tricks
Choose the Right Pears: Opt for pears that are just ripe but still firm. Overripe pears may release too much juice during baking, making the dough soggy.
Preheat Your Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven at the highest temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza. This helps achieve a crispier crust.
Thinly Slice the Pears: Use a mandoline slicer to get consistently thin slices of pear. Thin slices ensure that the pears cook quickly and evenly without overpowering other flavors.
Balance the Cheeses: The sharpness of gorgonzola can be intense for some. Balance it with mild mozzarella or even add a bit of ricotta for a creamier texture.
Drizzle with Quality Balsamic Glaze: Invest in a good quality balsamic glaze for drizzling over your finished pizza. It adds a rich, complex flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears.
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary not only add a beautiful aromatic touch but also enhance the flavors of the pear and cheese.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes. Every oven is different, and the pizza may need less or more time than expected.
Add Greens After Baking: Top the pizza with fresh arugula after baking to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
Use a Hot Oven: Bake your pizza in a very hot oven to mimic the environment of a professional pizza oven. This helps in achieving a well-cooked crust and perfectly melted cheese.
Let it Rest: Allow the pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes it easier to cut and lets the flavors meld together better.
Variations
Apple and Pear Pizza: Combine slices of apple and pear for a varied fruit flavor. Apples offer a slightly tart contrast to the sweet pears.
Honey Drizzle: Instead of balsamic glaze, try drizzling honey over the pizza just before serving for a different type of sweetness.
Spicy Pear Pizza: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a spicy kick that complements the sweet pear.
Vegan Pear Pizza: Use vegan cheese alternatives and a vegan dough to cater to plant-based diets.
Caramelized Onion Pear Pizza: Top the pizza with caramelized onions before baking for added sweetness and a savory flavor depth.
Dessert Pear Pizza: Make a dessert version using a sweeter base like puff pastry, topped with mascarpone cheese, sliced pears, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Substitutions
Different Cheese Options: If gorgonzola is too strong, substitute with feta, goat cheese, or brie for milder flavor profiles.
Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free pizza base for those with dietary restrictions.
Arugula Alternatives: If arugula is not available, baby spinach or watercress make great alternatives, providing a similar peppery flavor.
Nut Substitutions: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different texture and taste.
Balsamic Reduction Substitute: If balsamic glaze is too bold, a lighter alternative could be a reduction made from apple cider vinegar mixed with a touch of honey.
Olive Oil Swap: For a nuttier flavor, use walnut oil or avocado oil instead of olive oil for brushing the dough.
Making Ahead
Prepare Dough in Advance: Pizza dough can be made ahead and either refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Allow refrigerated dough to come to room temperature before rolling out.
Slice Pears and Cheese: You can slice the pears and crumble or slice the cheese a day in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Storage
Refrigerating Leftover Pizza: Store leftover pear pizza in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While pear pizza can be frozen, the texture of the pears and arugula may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating
Oven Method: Reheat the pizza in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-10 minutes. This method helps to preserve the crispiness of the crust.
Skillet Method: For a quick warm-up, place a slice in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Covering the skillet can help heat the pizza more evenly without drying it out.
Microwave: Although not ideal for maintaining the texture, you can use the microwave for a quick reheat. Place the slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for about 30-60 seconds. To prevent the crust from getting too chewy, place a cup of water in the microwave alongside the pizza to add moisture.
Yes, you can use canned pears, but be sure to drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the pizza soggy. Fresh pears are preferred for their texture and natural sweetness, but well-drained canned pears can be a convenient alternative.
If gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, good alternatives include goat cheese, feta, or brie. These cheeses still offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pears but with a milder flavor profile.
Absolutely! For a dessert version, consider using a sweeter crust base like puff pastry, top with mascarpone or cream cheese mixed with a little sugar, arrange thinly sliced pears, and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg before baking. Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce after baking.
Preheat your oven with the pizza stone inside at the highest temperature for at least 30 minutes. This mimics a pizza oven and gives you a crispier crust. Also, ensure your pear slices are thin and excess moisture is removed to prevent a soggy crust.
Recipe by JesseCourse: MainCuisine: FusionDifficulty: Easy
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
15
minutes
Cooking time
15
minutes
Calories
280
kcal
Ingredients
Pizza Dough – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
Ripe Pears – 2 medium, thinly sliced
Gorgonzola Cheese – 150 grams, crumbled
Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Fresh Arugula – 1 cup, to garnish after baking
Balsamic Glaze – 2 tablespoons, for drizzling
Walnuts – 1/4 cup, chopped and toasted (optional)
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for brushing the dough
Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning
Fresh Thyme or Rosemary – 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit (245 degrees Celsius). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a round shape about 12 inches in diameter. Brush the surface with olive oil to help the crust crisp up and prevent it from becoming soggy from the toppings.
Arrange the thinly sliced pears evenly over the dough, creating a single layer that covers most of the surface. Sprinkle the crumbled gorgonzola cheese evenly over the pears, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. This combination of cheeses will give your pizza a lovely creamy texture and a rich flavor.
Transfer the prepared pizza to the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, making it just tender. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness and acidity. If you opted to use them, sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the pizza for an added crunch.
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the cheese set slightly, making the pizza easier to cut and serve. Slice with a pizza cutter or a sharp knife and enjoy the melding of sweet pear with the tangy and rich cheeses, enhanced by the peppery arugula and the sweet balsamic glaze.
Conclusion
Pear pizza stands out as a remarkable dish that beautifully marries the sweetness of ripe pears with the creamy, tangy flavors of cheeses like gorgonzola and mozzarella. Its versatility allows it to transition smoothly from a main course to a delectable dessert option, adaptable to various dietary preferences through simple ingredient swaps.
By incorporating fresh arugula and a balsamic drizzle, it adds layers of flavor—peppery, sweet, and tangy—that enrich the overall dining experience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a unique twist on traditional pizza night, pear pizza offers a sophisticated yet comforting choice that’s sure to satisfy diverse palates.
