Description
This Grilled Caprese Pizza recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad by combining it with a crispy, smoky grilled pizza crust. Featuring fresh heirloom tomatoes, melted mozzarella cheese, vibrant basil leaves, and rich pizza sauce, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful, fresh, and cheesy pizza that balances smoky grill flavors with light, fresh toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Flour and cornmeal (for dusting pan)
Toppings
- â…“ cup (123 g) pizza sauce, more if needed
- 1 ½ cups (112 g) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ large heirloom tomato, thinly sliced
- Handful of basil, thinly sliced or hand-torn
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat, ensuring the grill grates are clean and properly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: On a 9-inch pizza pan lightly dusted with flour and cornmeal, roll out your pizza dough and gently stretch and pull it to fit the pan’s dimensions evenly.
- Grill the Dough: Carefully transfer the shaped dough onto the grill grates, positioning it centered over the heat. Close the grill lid and cook the dough for 3-5 minutes per side, monitoring closely to achieve a slightly charred and crisp crust without burning.
- Assemble Toppings: Once the dough is grilled on both sides, reduce the grill heat to low and remove the dough from the grill. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the grilled dough base. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then layer the thinly sliced heirloom tomato pieces on top.
- Finish Grilling: Return the assembled pizza to the grill and cook on low heat until the mozzarella melts completely and the toppings are warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the pizza from the grill, garnish with fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure your grill grates are well cleaned and oiled before cooking to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Adjust grilling time based on your grill’s heat intensity to avoid burning the crust.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a little olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving.
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe heirloom tomatoes to maximize flavor.
- Can be customized with additional toppings like fresh garlic, olives, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
