Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza
If you're on the hunt for a delightful pizza that combines savory and fresh flavors, look no further than our Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza. This mouthwatering creation features crispy, smoky bacon paired with sweet, ripe tomatoes and vibrant arugula, all resting on a beautifully baked crust. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this pizza is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why Bacon Is a Must-Have
Bacon is a game changer in the world of pizza toppings. Its savory, smoky notes enhance the flavors of the other ingredients, particularly the tomatoes. As you bite into this delicious pizza, you’ll experience the satisfying crunch of the bacon, followed by the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes, and finally, the peppery bite of the arugula. It’s a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.
Choosing Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can elevate your pizza experience. When selecting tomatoes, opt for juicy, vine-ripened varieties to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. If you can find heirloom tomatoes, don’t hesitate to use them; their unique sweetness and varied textures add depth to your pizza.
Arugula is another star in this dish. Known for its peppery flavor, it provides a refreshing contrast to the rich bacon and sweet tomatoes. Packed with vitamins and minerals, arugula is a healthy addition that enhances the pizza’s nutritional profile. For the best flavor, choose organic arugula whenever possible.
Crafting the Perfect Pizza Dough
The foundation of any great pizza is its crust. Making your own pizza dough might seem daunting, but it’s quite simple. With high-quality flour and proper rising time, you can achieve a crust that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. If you're short on time, store-bought dough can work just as well; just be sure to follow the instructions on the package for optimal results.
Putting It All Together
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to assemble your pizza masterpiece. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your preferred thickness. If you enjoy a thick crust, keep it a bit plumper; for a thin and crispy finish, roll it out as thinly as you like. Transfer the dough onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Start by spreading a thin layer of your favorite tomato sauce on the crust. A simple marinara or a garlic-infused olive oil works wonderfully. Next, layer on the crispy bacon followed by fresh tomato slices. If you enjoy cheese, feel free to sprinkle a light amount of mozzarella, but remember, the toppings are the stars of this dish!
Baking Your Pizza
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 475°F (245°C) is ideal. If using a pizza stone, let it preheat as well. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy crust. Bake your pizza for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the bacon sizzles invitingly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Finishing Touches with Arugula
Once your pizza is out of the oven, it’s time to add the finishing touch: fresh arugula. Toss the arugula lightly with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance its flavor. Spread it generously over the hot pizza, allowing the residual heat to slightly wilt the leaves. This not only adds a burst of color but also freshens the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Serving Your Pizza
Slice your Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza and serve it hot! It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. The contrast of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and peppery arugula will have your guests asking for more. Complement your meal with a light red wine or a refreshing white for an enjoyable dining experience.
Creative Variations
Feel free to put your spin on this recipe! Consider adding caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply skip the bacon and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pizza (which is unlikely!), storing it is a breeze. Place the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat the pizza in the oven to keep the crust crispy. You can also microwave it, but the crust might lose some of its texture.
Final Thoughts
Our Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza is more than just a meal; it's an experience to savor. With its incredible flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Ideal for any occasion, this pizza showcases the beauty of combining simple, quality components. So gather your loved ones and indulge in this delicious creation today!
Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 450°.
Place dough in a bowl coated with cooking spray; let dough stand, covered, for 15 minutes.
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon; crumble. Add tomatoes and pepper to drippings in pan; cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal; roll dough into a 12-inch circle on prepared baking sheet. Spread sauce evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with tomatoes and bacon. Sprinkle cheese over top. Bake at 450° on bottom oven rack for 17 minutes or until crust is golden. Combine arugula and remaining ingredients; top pizza with arugula mixture.
6 servings
1 slice
- Amount per serving
- Calories314
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.1g12%
- Total Carbohydrate 50.2g19%
- Protein 13.5g
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Bacon, Tomato, and Arugula Pizza is one of many healthy recipe ideas that you can find on our recipe page.
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Ingredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 450°.
Place dough in a bowl coated with cooking spray; let dough stand, covered, for 15 minutes.
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon; crumble. Add tomatoes and pepper to drippings in pan; cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal; roll dough into a 12-inch circle on prepared baking sheet. Spread sauce evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with tomatoes and bacon. Sprinkle cheese over top. Bake at 450° on bottom oven rack for 17 minutes or until crust is golden. Combine arugula and remaining ingredients; top pizza with arugula mixture.
