Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza

Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza Recipe - Made with Fresh California Avocado and Mozzarella

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Avocado, Crab, and Pesto Pizza is a modern twist on traditional pizza, incorporating the creamy texture of avocado, the delicate flavor of crab meat, and the rich taste of pesto. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore gourmet pizza options at home. It combines the freshness of seafood with the aromatic basil pesto, creating a unique and delicious experience.

History

The concept of combining seafood with pizza is not new and has its roots in coastal Italian cuisine where fresh seafood is abundant. However, the addition of avocado and pesto is a more contemporary innovation, reflecting the growing trend of fusion cuisine. This recipe is a testament to the evolving nature of pizza, from a simple peasant meal to a canvas for culinary creativity.

Ingredients

1 unbaked pizza dough shell, 9 inches
0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz (113 g) california avocado, sliced
2 oz (57 g) cooked dungeness crab meat
2 tsp minced roasted garlic
1 tbsp diced red bell pepper
0.25 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 oz (28 g) pesto
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh lemon zest
1 tsp capers

How to prepare

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Method
Start by topping the pizza shell with the ingredients in the order listed, beginning and ending with the mozzarella cheese.
Bake at 500°F (260°C) until the crust turns golden and the cheese at the center is bubbly hot.
Drizzle the pesto in a circle, about an inch away from the edge of the crust.
Evenly scatter the capers and lemon zest over the pizza.
Finally, cut the pizza into 8 slices.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the crab meat with artichoke hearts or grilled zucchini slices. To add a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the pizza before baking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to achieve a crispy crust. Use fresh, ripe avocados for a creamy texture and vibrant color. When spreading the pesto, leave a small border to prevent it from burning. For an extra flavor boost, lightly toast the pine nuts in the pesto before applying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pizza with a side of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the toppings. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pizza.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pizza at a high temperature ensures a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. Using a pizza stone can enhance the texture of the crust by evenly distributing the heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If crab meat is not available, cooked shrimp or canned tuna can be used as alternatives. For a nut-free pesto, consider using sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.

Make Ahead Tips

The pizza dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator overnight. The avocado should be sliced just before assembling the pizza to prevent browning.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked pizza with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant finish. Serve on a wooden pizza peel for a rustic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Aside from white wine, a light beer or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors of the pizza without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this pizza contains approximately 350 calories. The calories are well balanced between carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a nutritious meal option when enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Avocado, Crab, and Pesto Pizza contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority comes from the pizza dough, with minor contributions from the toppings. Opting for a whole wheat pizza dough can increase the fiber content and reduce the glycemic index.

Fats

This pizza is relatively high in healthy fats, thanks to the avocado and pesto. A serving contains about 22 grams of fat, with a significant portion being monounsaturated fats from the avocado. These fats are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

Each serving provides around 15 grams of protein, primarily from the crab meat and cheese. This moderate protein content makes the pizza a satisfying meal option that contributes to muscle maintenance and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The avocado, crab meat, and red bell peppers make this pizza a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune system health and blood pressure regulation.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (cheese), shellfish (crab), and tree nuts (pesto). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternative substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Avocado, Crab, and Pesto Pizza is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of macronutrients, along with beneficial vitamins and minerals. It's a heart-healthy choice due to the presence of monounsaturated fats and is also a good source of protein.

Summary

The Avocado, Crab, and Pesto Pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a gourmet experience to the comfort of your home. With its nutritious profile and versatile ingredients, it's a dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this pizza is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her beautiful coastal home. Maria was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for me.

On this particular evening, Maria surprised me with a unique and mouthwatering dish - Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza. I had never heard of such a combination before, but one bite was all it took for me to fall in love with the flavors.

As I savored each bite of the pizza, I couldn't help but ask Maria for the recipe. She smiled and told me it was a family secret, passed down from her grandmother. However, she could see the sparkle in my eyes and knew how much I loved to cook, so she decided to share the recipe with me.

Maria took me into her cozy kitchen and began to teach me the steps to make the Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza. She started by showing me how to make the perfect pizza dough from scratch, explaining the importance of letting it rise and kneading it just right.

Next, Maria taught me how to make the homemade pesto sauce. She used fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, blending them together until they formed a vibrant and fragrant sauce. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I knew this pizza was going to be something truly special.

After the pesto was ready, Maria guided me through the process of preparing the toppings. She showed me how to properly slice ripe avocados and gently pick the succulent crab meat from the shells. As we worked together, Maria shared stories of her childhood and the memories she had of making this pizza with her grandmother.

Once all the toppings were ready, Maria showed me how to assemble the pizza. She spread a generous amount of pesto sauce on the dough, then topped it with slices of creamy avocado and tender crab meat. We sprinkled some shredded mozzarella cheese on top and popped the pizza into the oven to bake.

As the pizza cooked, Maria and I sat at the kitchen table, sipping on glasses of chilled white wine and chatting about life. The smell of the pizza wafted through the air, making our mouths water in anticipation of the delicious meal to come.

When the timer dinged, we eagerly pulled the pizza out of the oven. The crust was golden brown and crispy, the cheese melted and bubbly, and the toppings looked vibrant and fresh. Maria and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

As we each took a slice of the Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza and bit into it, we were met with a burst of flavors that danced on our taste buds. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the sweet crab meat, and the fragrant pesto added a delightful herbaceousness to the dish.

Maria and I laughed and shared stories as we devoured the pizza, savoring each bite and reveling in the joy of good food and good company. It was a moment I would never forget, a memory of learning a new recipe from a dear friend and creating a delicious meal together.

Since that day, I have made the Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza countless times, sharing it with friends and family who are always amazed by the unique combination of flavors. Every time I make it, I think of Maria and the special bond we share over our love of cooking and good food.

I am grateful for that warm summer evening and the moment I found this recipe, as it has brought me joy and delicious meals ever since. And I will always cherish the memories of learning to make the Avocado, Crab and Pesto Pizza with Maria, a dear friend who holds a special place in my heart.