Tomato and Mozzarella Pesto Pizza

User Reviews

5

24 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    20 mins

  • Cook Time

    12 mins

  • Total Time

    32 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    439 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    Italian

Tomato and Mozzarella Pesto Pizza

This pizza features a base of pizza dough topped with arugula or basil pesto, shredded mozzarella cheese, and ripe firm tomato slices. Drizzled with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then baked to melt the cheese and crisp the crust, it yields a balanced pizza with fresh herb flavor, creamy cheese, and juicy tomato slices. The pesto adds a fragrant, green note, complementing the chewy dough and melted mozzarella, making this pizza a satisfying choice for a straightforward homemade meal.

Description

The Tomato and Mozzarella Pesto Pizza starts with pizza dough, either homemade or store-bought and rested for optimal shaping. The dough is spread thin on a greased baking sheet or pizza pan. A generous layer of arugula or basil pesto replaces traditional tomato sauce, providing a fresh, herbaceous base. Shredded firm mozzarella is evenly scattered over the pesto, followed by slices of ripe but firm tomatoes for a juicy, slightly tangy component.

A drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt enhance the toppings before baking at 425°F (220°C) for about 10–12 minutes. The heat melts the mozzarella into a creamy layer while crisping the pizza crust. Allowing the pizza to sit briefly post-baking lets flavors settle and the crust firm slightly for easier slicing.

This pizza pairs well with salads or can be served as a casual main dish. The arugula pesto provides a peppery depth, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the cheese. Resting dough before baking helps prevent shrinking and makes shaping easier.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 pizza dough (either a good store bought or homemade)
  • 5 tablespoons arugula pesto (or basil if you prefer)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, firm
  • 2-3 tomato ripe but firm
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Make homemade Pizza Dough  as per instructions,  let dough** rest for approximately 15-20 minutes before rolling
  2. Pre heat oven to 425 F (220 C).
  3. Shape the dough into a lightly greased pizza or cookie sheet, spread the Arugula Pesto or Basil Pesto (if you prefer) on top, then top with shredded mozzarella and sliced tomatoes.  Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes or until crust is baked and cheese is melted.  Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
  4. **Whether store bought or homemade pizza dough should rest for approximately 20 minutes before shaping into a round or oval shape. It keeps the dough from springing back when shaping.

Notes

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 439kcal (22%) Carbohydrates 51g (17%) Protein 15g (30%) Fat 19g (29%) Saturated Fat 6g (30%) Cholesterol 23mg (8%) Sodium 1060mg (44%) Potassium 167mg (4%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 8g (16%) Vitamin A 1080IU (22%) Vitamin C 8.4mg (9%) Calcium 178mg (18%) Iron 3mg (17%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 439 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 439kcal 22%
Carbohydrates 51g 17%
Protein 15g 30%
Fat 19g 29%
Saturated Fat 6g 30%
Cholesterol 23mg 8%
Sodium 1060mg 44%
Potassium 167mg 4%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 8g 16%
Vitamin A 1080IU 22%
Vitamin C 8.4mg 9%
Calcium 178mg 18%
Iron 3mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Genuine Reviews

User Reviews

Overall Rating

5

24 reviews
Excellent

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