Sweet Potato and Arugula Pizza is a delightful twist on the traditional pie, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe brings together the earthiness of sweet potatoes and the peppery bite of fresh arugula, making it a perfect dish for any season.
Sweet potato is the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a satisfying texture. Roasting them enhances their flavor, making them tender and caramelized. Arugula adds a fresh, peppery contrast that balances the sweetness of the potatoes. The pre-made pizza crust is a convenient base that saves time without sacrificing taste. Olive oil is used to roast the sweet potatoes, adding a subtle richness. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey layer that holds everything together, while feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy element. Dried thyme complements the sweet potatoes, adding a touch of herbal aroma. Finally, a bit of salt and pepper brings all the flavors together.
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of minestrone soup. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pizza will bake evenly and the crust will be nice and crispy. While the oven heats up, get your sweet potatoes ready. Peel one large sweet potato and cut it into thin slices. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even roasting.
Spread the sweet potato slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with about a tablespoon of olive oil, just enough to lightly coat them. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Roast the slices in the oven for about 15 minutes. They should come out tender and slightly golden.
As the sweet potatoes roast, prepare your pizza crust. Place it on a pizza stone or a baking sheet, whichever you have handy. Once the sweet potatoes are done, spread them evenly over the crust. This layer acts as the foundation of your pizza.
Next, sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sweet potatoes. Follow this with half a cup of crumbled feta cheese. These cheeses add different textures and flavors, making the pizza more interesting. Add a teaspoon of dried thyme over the top, distributing it evenly.
Place your pizza in the oven and bake it for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. This is where the magic happens — the flavors meld together beautifully.
Once baked, carefully remove the pizza from the oven and top it with fresh arugula. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, making it even more palatable. Slice and serve immediately for the best results.