Joe Roshkovsky
Gorgonzola Pear Pizza: A Perfectly Balanced Sweet and Savory Delicacy
Gorgonzola Pear Pizza blends the boldness of Gorgonzola cheese with the sweetness of fresh pears, all atop a crispy, thin pizza crust. The resulting dish is an exciting juxtaposition of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds with every bite. This pizza is perfect for fancy gatherings, a special dinner night, or just when you want to treat yourself to something unique and delicious.
Ingredients ###
For the pizza dough:
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
For the toppings:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large pear, thinly sliced
– 1 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Fresh arugula (optional)
Instructions ###
1. Prepare the dough:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Assemble the pizza:
1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or a baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a thin circle, about 12 inches in diameter.
3. Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper.
4. Brush the dough with olive oil, then arrange the pear slices evenly over the top.
5. Sprinkle the Gorgonzola and mozzarella cheeses over the pear slices.
6. Scatter the chopped walnuts and rosemary evenly across the pizza.
3. Bake the pizza:
1. Carefully slide the parchment paper with the assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Finish and serve:
1. Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
2. For added freshness, top with a handful of fresh arugula if desired.
3. Slice and serve immediately.
Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy Gorgonzola, sweet pears, and crunchy walnuts in this gourmet pizza creation!
