Green Olive and Onion Pizza
Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of pizza that is not just a feast for the eyes but a burst of flavors in your mouth. This Green Olive and Onion Pizza is just that—a delightful combination of savory olives, sweet caramelized onions, and rich mozzarella cheese all brought together on a perfect crust. Whether you’re hosting a game night, having a cozy dinner, or just craving a delicious homemade pizza, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
The beauty of pizza lies in its versatility, and this Green Olive and Onion Pizza is a prime example of that. It offers a unique twist on traditional pizza toppings, making it a perfect choice for those looking to break away from the usual pepperoni and cheese. The combination of green olives and onions not only adds a burst of flavor but also a depth that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to make, allowing you to whip it up on a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create this delightful pizza, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2-3 tablespoons (25g-36g) olive oil: This will be used for sautéing the garlic and enhancing the flavor of the crust.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch to the sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The base of your pizza sauce, providing a rich, tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Pizza dough: Enough for one 12-inch pie; you can make your own or buy pre-made.
- Flour for dusting: Keeps your work surface and dough from sticking.
- ¾ cup (60g) sliced Castelvetrano olives: These tender, flavorful olives add a unique taste.
- ¾ cup (20g) thinly sliced red onion: Sweet and slightly pungent, they balance the saltiness of the olives.
- 3 ounces (90g) torn or shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty goodness.
- Parmesan cheese for finishing: A sprinkle of this adds a nice salty kick.
- Crushed red pepper flakes for finishing: Optional, but they bring a lovely heat to the pizza.
Appliances & Accessories
To make your pizza-making experience seamless, gather the following tools:
- Oven: Preheated to ensure a perfectly baked crust.
- Pizza stone or baking sheet: For even cooking and a crispy bottom.
- Rolling pin: To stretch out your pizza dough.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the garlic, onions, and olives.
- Mixing bowl: To combine your sauce ingredients.
Green Olive and Onion Pizza — Do This Next
Creating this delicious Green Olive and Onion Pizza is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kosher salt, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a lightly greased baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the sliced Castelvetrano olives and red onions evenly over the sauce, followed by the torn mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Slice and enjoy your Green Olive and Onion Pizza while it’s hot!
Healthier Substitutions
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, consider these substitutions:
- Whole wheat pizza dough: Swap out regular dough for whole wheat for added fiber.
- Low-fat mozzarella: Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat.
- Fresh herbs: Instead of dried oregano, use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Less cheese: Reduce the amount of mozzarella and add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
What Could Go Wrong
While this recipe is fairly straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Burnt garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly.
- Overcooked crust: Check your pizza a minute or two before the timer goes off to prevent a burnt bottom.
- Too much moisture: If your tomatoes are too watery, drain some liquid off to avoid a soggy crust.
- Uneven toppings: Spread the toppings evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to prepare in advance or store leftovers, here’s what you need to know:
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. To reheat, place the slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on pizza night.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use a different type of olive?
Absolutely! If Castelvetrano olives aren’t available, feel free to use Kalamata or green olives according to your preference. Just be aware that different olives have different flavor profiles.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic adds the best flavor, you can substitute it with garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.
Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Yes! You can freeze pizza dough for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I serve with this pizza?
This pizza pairs well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. A light vinaigrette on the salad can complement the savory flavors of the pizza beautifully.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Green Olive and Onion Pizza, you might want to try these other delicious recipes:
- Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
- Mediterranean Veggie Pizza
- Spicy Pepperoni Pizza
- White Garlic Pizza with Spinach
Let’s Eat
This Green Olive and Onion Pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its unique flavors and satisfying texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make pizza magic happen! Enjoy every bite of this delicious homemade creation.
Green Olive and Onion Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kosher salt, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- While the sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a lightly greased baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.
- Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the sliced Castelvetrano olives and red onions evenly over the sauce, followed by the torn mozzarella cheese.
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Once out of the oven, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Slice and enjoy your Green Olive and Onion Pizza while it’s hot!
Notes
- Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- You can make the sauce a day ahead to save time.
