This Rustic Pear and Gorgonzola Pizza is a delightful twist on the classic pizza, perfect for when you want something a bit different. The combination of sweet pears with tangy Gorgonzola and crunchy walnuts creates a symphony of flavors that's hard to resist.
Pizza dough forms the base of our pizza, providing a chewy and satisfying texture. Gorgonzola cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pears. Speaking of which, pears contribute a natural sweetness and a slightly juicy texture that balances the other flavors. Walnuts offer a delightful crunch and a nutty depth. Mozzarella cheese adds that classic stretchy, melty goodness that makes pizza so comforting. Olive oil is used to brush the dough, adding richness and helping achieve a golden crust. Fresh rosemary provides an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Finally, arugula adds a peppery freshness to balance the richness.
This pizza pairs beautifully with a light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for extra freshness. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors well. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing.
First off, you'll want to preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a nice crispy crust. While the oven is heating up, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. You can choose the thickness you prefer, but I find a medium thickness works best for this recipe. Once rolled, place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper. This simple prep step adds a lot of flavor to your base.
Next, layer your sliced pears evenly over the dough. Make sure to distribute them well, so each bite gets that sweet, juicy taste. Now, sprinkle the Gorgonzola and mozzarella cheese over the pears. The combination of these two cheeses creates a fantastic creamy and tangy flavor that complements the pears perfectly.
Time to add some texture! Scatter your chopped walnuts across the pizza. These little nuggets will toast up beautifully in the oven. Sprinkle the fresh rosemary over the top, which will release a wonderful aroma as it bakes.
Pop your pizza into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. You're looking for a golden crust and bubbly cheese. Once done, remove it from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, enhancing its flavor without making it soggy.
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