Avocado, Blue Cheese and Bacon Pizza
Avocado, Blue Cheese and Bacon Pizza Recipe - Made in the USA
Introduction
Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza combines the creamy texture of avocado, the sharp tang of blue cheese, and the smoky flavor of bacon on a crispy crust for a gourmet twist on traditional pizza. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore sophisticated flavors in familiar formats. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a personal treat, this pizza promises a delightful culinary experience.
History
The concept of topping pizza with avocado and gourmet cheeses like blue cheese is a relatively modern innovation, reflecting the growing trend towards fusion cuisine and the incorporation of non-traditional ingredients into classic dishes. The addition of bacon adds a familiar, comforting element that ties the bold flavors together. This recipe is a testament to the evolving nature of pizza, from its humble beginnings in Italy to its current status as a global canvas for culinary creativity.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pizza dough shell, 9 inches
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 roma tomato, cut into 0.13 inch slices
- 4 oz (113 g) california avocado, diced
- 0.25 cup crisply cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp red onion, diced
- 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tbsp thinly julienned fresh spinach leaves, for garnish
How to prepare
- METHOD:
- Brush the pizza dough shell with olive oil. Top with the ingredients in the order listed, up to the blue cheese.
- Bake at 500°F (260°C) until the crust is golden and the cheese at the center is bubbly and hot.
- Scatter the spinach over the top.
- Cut into 8 slices.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sliced mushrooms or artichoke hearts. To reduce fat, use a low-fat cheese blend and turkey bacon.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best results, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to achieve a crispy crust. When dicing the avocado, toss it lightly in lemon juice to prevent browning. For evenly melted cheese, distribute it carefully over the pizza, and consider cooking the pizza on the top rack of the oven to encourage a bubbly, golden finish without overcooking the toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza with a light arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to complement the richness of the pizza. A crisp, dry white wine or a light beer can also enhance the dining experience.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the pizza at a high temperature on a preheated surface ensures a crispy crust. Brushing the dough with olive oil before adding toppings helps prevent sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions
If blue cheese is too strong, feta or goat cheese can be a milder alternative. Arugula can replace spinach for a peppery flavor, and turkey bacon is a leaner option than traditional bacon.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the pizza dough and cook the bacon in advance. Assemble the pizza just before baking to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
Presentation Ideas
After baking, drizzle the pizza with a balsamic glaze and sprinkle with edible flowers for an elegant finish. Serve on a wooden pizza peel for a rustic touch.
Pairing Recommendations
A light-bodied Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the pizza. For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A single serving of this pizza contains approximately 350 calories. The majority of these calories come from fats and carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of this pizza provides approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the pizza dough. The exact count may vary based on the specific type of dough used.
Fats
This pizza is rich in fats, with roughly 20 grams per serving. These fats come from the olive oil, cheese, avocado, and bacon, providing a mix of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats.
Proteins
Each serving contains about 12 grams of protein, sourced from the cheese and bacon. This moderate protein content makes the pizza a satisfying meal option.
Vitamins and minerals
Avocado is a significant source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as folate, magnesium, and potassium. Blue cheese contributes calcium and phosphorus, while spinach offers iron and additional vitamin K.
Alergens
Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (in the pizza dough), dairy (cheese), and potentially eggs (if used in the pizza dough). Individuals with food sensitivities should modify the recipe accordingly.
Summary
This Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza is a high-calorie, nutrient-dense meal that offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful option for those not restricted by calorie or fat intake.
Summary
This Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza is a gourmet delight that combines rich flavors and textures on a classic pizza base. With its blend of nutritious ingredients and indulgent toppings, it offers a satisfying meal that's as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a casual cook, this recipe is sure to impress.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had picked up at a garage sale. As I flipped through the pages, a particular recipe caught my eye - a unique twist on traditional pizza that combined creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, and crispy bacon.
I had always been a lover of pizza, but this combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever seen before. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that this recipe would become one of my all-time favorites, and a staple in my cooking repertoire.
As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The thought of avocado, blue cheese, and bacon coming together on a crisp, golden crust was simply mouthwatering. I quickly gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen.
I began by preparing the pizza dough, kneading it until it was smooth and elastic. As it rose and rested, I cooked the bacon until it was perfectly crisp and golden. The aroma of sizzling bacon filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.
Next, I sliced open a ripe avocado and scooped out the creamy flesh. I mashed it with a fork until it was smooth and spreadable, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. The tangy blue cheese crumbles were next, adding a sharp and savory element to the dish.
Once the dough was ready, I rolled it out into a thin circle and spread a generous layer of avocado puree over the top. I sprinkled on the crispy bacon pieces and crumbled blue cheese, making sure to distribute them evenly.
As the pizza baked in the hot oven, the tantalizing scent of melted cheese and sizzling bacon filled the room. I could hardly wait for it to be done. Finally, the timer dinged, and I pulled the pizza out of the oven, the crust golden and crispy, the toppings bubbling and gooey.
I couldn't resist taking a bite immediately, the flavors exploding on my taste buds. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the tangy blue cheese and salty bacon, creating a symphony of flavors that danced across my palate.
From that moment on, Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza became a regular feature on my dinner table. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all fell in love with it just as I had. It was a dish that brought people together, sparking conversations and laughter over shared meals.
As the years passed, I continued to make this pizza, each time adding my own little twist or variation to keep things interesting. Sometimes I would add caramelized onions or roasted garlic, other times I would sprinkle on fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
But no matter how I changed it up, the core ingredients of avocado, blue cheese, and bacon remained constant. They were the heart and soul of the dish, the flavors that brought me back to that warm summer afternoon when I first discovered this recipe.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of baking bread and simmering sauces, I can't help but smile as I think back on that fateful day. Avocado, Blue Cheese, and Bacon Pizza may just be a simple recipe, but to me, it holds a world of memories and a lifetime of joy. And for that, I will always be grateful.
Categories
| American Recipes | Avocado Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Hass Avocado Recipes | Mozzarella Recipes | Pizza Recipes | Red Onion Recipes | Spinach Recipes |