As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, this Savory Autumn Harvest Pizza is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, and a hint of sage, each bite captures the essence of the season. Let's dive into a pizza that's as comforting as your favorite sweater.
Butternut squash brings a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the savory elements. When roasted, it becomes tender and slightly caramelized. Red onion adds a depth of sweetness as it caramelizes, balancing the savory and sweet notes. The olive oil and butter are your dynamic duo for roasting and sautéing, ensuring everything cooks to perfection. Fresh sage infuses a warm, earthy aroma that screams autumn. The trio of cheeses — ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan — creates a creamy, melty base with a touch of tang. Pine nuts offer a subtle crunch and nutty flavor, while the baby spinach adds a fresh, vibrant finish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties all the flavors together with its sweet and tangy notes.
This pizza pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied red. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The fresh, peppery greens complement the rich pizza flavors.
First, let's get that oven nice and hot by preheating it to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, grab your butternut squash, toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes until the pieces are tender and just starting to caramelize.
While the squash is roasting, turn your attention to the onions. In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and let them cook, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20 minutes, and you'll want them to be golden and caramelized.
Now, onto the pizza dough. Roll it out on a floured surface, aiming for your preferred thickness. I like a medium-thick crust myself, but you do you! Spread the ricotta cheese over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Then, layer on the roasted squash, caramelized onions, and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese all over.
For the finishing touches before baking, sprinkle the fresh sage and pine nuts on top. Slide the pizza into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Once it's out of the oven, top with fresh spinach and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Slice it up and enjoy while warm!
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