Description
This Pesto Caprese Puff Pastry Pizza is a delicious and elegant appetizer combining flaky puff pastry with vibrant basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh basil and optional balsamic glaze, it’s a perfect easy-to-make Italian-inspired snack or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Base
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it out into a roughly 10×14 inch rectangle. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
- Score and Dock Pastry: Use a knife to lightly score a 1/2-inch border around the edges of the pastry without cutting through. Prick the inside of the pastry with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during the first bake.
- First Bake: Bake the puff pastry for 10 minutes until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven, then gently press down any areas that have puffed up inside the scored border.
- Add Pesto and Toppings: Spread the basil pesto evenly within the scored border. Arrange the mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the pesto. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Second Bake: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pastry edges are golden and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use either store-bought or homemade basil pesto depending on convenience and preference.
- For added flavor, toss fresh arugula on top after baking for a peppery bite.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes to introduce a more concentrated, savory flavor.
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to avoid cracks or tearing.
