Chimichurri Pizza Recipe
Elevate pizza night with Mangoes and Palm Trees’ vibrant chimichurri pizza recipe!
Transform your pizza night with the bold, tropical flavors of our **chimichurri pizza recipe** from Mangoes and Palm Trees. Picture a crispy crust topped with juicy tomato halves, melty mozzarella, and a zesty, herb-packed chimichurri sauce that brings a South American flair to every bite. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a gourmet treat, this **tropical chimichurri pizza** is easy to make and bursting with fresh ingredients. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that blends comfort and adventure. Dive into this **healthy pizza recipe** and explore more at our Recipes.
Why Choose Chimichurri Pizza?
This **chimichurri pizza recipe** reimagines classic pizza with a vibrant South American twist, blending the tangy, herbaceous kick of chimichurri with the juicy sweetness of tomato halves. The result is a gourmet dish that balances rich mozzarella and crispy crust, perfect for pizza nights or entertaining. Its fresh, bold flavors make it a standout, as noted by Bon Appétit. Pair it with our Smoky Chicken Tomato Bisque for a complete meal.
What is Chimichurri?
Chimichurri is a lively Argentine sauce featuring parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and chili flakes. Traditionally served with grilled meats, it adds a fresh, tangy zest to this **tomato chimichurri pizza**, elevating it to gourmet status (Epicurious).
The Role of Tomato Halves
Tomato halves bring a burst of juicy, fresh flavor, balancing the bold chimichurri. Unlike thin slices, halves retain moisture during baking, ensuring a succulent bite without sogging the crust, making them ideal for this **healthy pizza recipe**.
Ingredients for Your Chimichurri Pizza
This **easy chimichurri pizza** relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver vibrant flavors. Here’s what you need for the base, sauce, and optional add-ons.
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe tomatoes | 4 medium | Juicy, fresh topping |
| Chimichurri sauce | 1/2 cup | Zesty, herbaceous flavor |
| Pizza dough | 1 lb | Crispy base |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Melty, creamy layer |
| Tomato sauce | 1/2 cup | Rich, savory base |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Flavor and crispiness |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Subtle spice |
Optional Add-Ons
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp for a spicy kick
- Caramelized onions: 1/4 cup for sweet depth
- Fresh basil leaves: 6-8 for aromatic freshness
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup for nutty richness
- Sliced olives: 1/4 cup for briny contrast
Tip: Source fresh tomatoes and herbs for the best flavor, as seen in our Stewed Tomato Recipes.
Chimichurri Pizza Recipe
This **tropical chimichurri pizza** combines juicy tomato halves, zesty chimichurri sauce, and melty cheese for a gourmet twist on pizza night. Follow these steps for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish.
Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Fresh cilantro | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tbsp | - |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup | - |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | - |
| Red chili flakes | 1/2 tsp | - |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | - |
Chimichurri Sauce Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp chili flakes, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Stir until well blended, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Let sit for 15 minutes to meld flavors. Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Pizza Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza dough | 1 lb | Homemade or store-bought |
| Tomato sauce | 1/2 cup | - |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Shredded |
| Ripe tomatoes | 4 medium | Halved |
| Chimichurri sauce | 1/2 cup | - |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | - |
| Salt | 1 tsp | - |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | - |
| Fresh basil leaves | 6-8 | Optional |
Pizza Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone in the oven to heat, if using.
- On a floured surface, roll out 1 lb pizza dough to a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.
- Spread 1/2 cup tomato sauce evenly, leaving a 1-inch border for a crispy crust.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Arrange 4 halved tomatoes cut-side up, seasoning with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Drizzle 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce over the tomatoes and cheese.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven, drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, and garnish with 6-8 basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve hot.
Nutrition (Per Slice, 1/8 Pizza): ~220 kcal, 8g protein, 10g fat, 25g carbs, 2g fiber, 450mg sodium.
Yield: 8 slices.
Selecting the Perfect Tomatoes
Top Tomato Varieties
For this **chimichurri pizza recipe**, heirloom tomatoes offer complex flavor, Roma tomatoes provide a meaty texture, and cherry tomatoes caramelize sweetly when halved. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best results, as highlighted in our Stewed Tomato Recipes.
Preparing Tomato Halves
Wash 4 medium tomatoes, remove stems, and halve. For larger varieties, scoop out excess seeds to prevent a soggy crust. Pat dry with paper towels or pre-roast at 400°F for 10 minutes to intensify flavor and reduce moisture.
Crafting the Perfect Pizza Dough
Homemade Dough Recipe
In a large bowl, mix 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 cup warm water (110°F), and 2 tsp active dry yeast. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth, let rise for 1 hour until doubled, and roll out for a fresh, flavorful base.
Store-Bought Options
Opt for fresh or refrigerated store-bought dough for convenience. Follow package instructions, typically rolling out and pre-baking lightly for a crisp crust.
Assembling Your Pizza
Spreading the Sauce
Spread 1/2 cup tomato sauce in a thin, even layer, leaving a 1-inch border to ensure a crispy crust in this **easy chimichurri pizza**.
Arranging Tomato Halves
Place tomato halves cut-side up, spacing evenly across the pizza. Drizzle with 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce for a zesty, herbaceous kick.
Cooking Methods
Oven Baking
Bake at 475°F for 12-15 minutes on a preheated pizza stone for a golden, crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
Grilling for Smoky Flavor
Grill over medium-high heat (400°F) for 10-12 minutes on a pizza stone or grill-safe tray, flipping halfway to infuse a smoky depth (Serious Eats).
Perfecting the Cheese Layer
Choosing the Best Cheese
Mozzarella ensures a classic, stretchy melt, while optional parmesan or gouda adds nutty depth for a gourmet touch.
Melting Tips
Spread 1 1/2 cups mozzarella evenly and bake at 475°F on a preheated stone to achieve a uniform, bubbly melt without burning.
Adding Final Touches
Fresh Herbs
Garnish with 6-8 fresh basil leaves or parsley post-baking for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
Extra Seasonings
Sprinkle flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper, or 1/2 tsp red chili flakes for a personalized flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted zucchini, or garlic breadsticks to complement the bold flavors of this **chimichurri pizza recipe**. Try our Salads for inspiration.
Beverage Recommendations
Pair with a chilled lager, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with a lime twist to enhance the tropical vibe, as suggested in our Drinks.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Your Pizza
Cool pizza completely, then store slices in an airtight container with parchment paper separators. Refrigerate at ≤40°F (4°C) for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Reheating for Crispiness
Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes, microwave for 1-2 minutes, or cook in a covered skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to restore the crispy crust.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Profile
Tomatoes provide ~10mg vitamin C and lycopene per serving, supporting immunity and heart health. Chimichurri’s herbs offer vitamins A, C, and K, while olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats (~5g per serving).
Healthy Swaps
Use whole wheat dough for added fiber, low-fat or plant-based cheese for reduced calories, and extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for nutrients, as seen in our Healthy Meal Plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Make Tomato Sauce from Scratch?
Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in 1 tbsp olive oil, add 1 cup crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1 tsp dried basil. Simmer for 20 minutes and cool before spreading.
What’s the Best Tomato Sauce for Pizza?
A smooth, rich sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil or oregano works best.
Can I Use Tomato Sauce Instead of Paste?
Yes, use 1/2 cup tomato sauce for a thinner consistency, adjusting to avoid a soggy crust.
Is Bottled Tomato Sauce Okay?
Yes, select a thick, high-quality bottled sauce and enhance with 1/2 tsp dried herbs for better flavor.
Which Topping Will You Add to Your Chimichurri Pizza?
Basil Leaves Red Pepper Flakes Caramelized Onions
Vote and share your choice on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees!
Conclusion
This **chimichurri pizza recipe** with juicy tomato halves is a tropical-inspired twist on a classic, perfect for family gatherings, cozy pizza nights, or impressing guests. Its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and customizable toppings make it a must-try. Share your creation on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees and explore more recipes at Recipes or discover your culinary style with our Personality Quiz Hub. Happy cooking!
