Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza Recipe - Authentic & Delicious

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 24 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza is a delicious and popular pizza variation that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple with savory ham and cheese. This tropical twist on a classic pizza is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza are a bit murky, but it is believed to have been created in Canada in the 1960s. Sam Panopoulos, a Greek immigrant, is often credited with inventing this unique pizza topping combination. The sweet and savory flavors of pineapple and ham quickly gained popularity and spread to pizza menus around the world.

Ingredients

1 package (16 oz / 454 g) of hot roll mix
1 can (8 oz / 227 g) of pizza sauce
0.5 lb (227 g) of thinly sliced fully cooked ham, cut into 0.5 inch strips
1 green sweet pepper, sliced into thin rings
1 can (20 oz / 567 g) of pineapple tidbits, drained
1 cup (4 oz / 113 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp of grated parmesan or romano cheese

How to prepare

Grease a 13-inch pizza pan and set it aside.
Prepare the hot roll mix according to the package directions for making pizza crust.
Shape the dough into a ball.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a circle that is 1 inch larger than the pizza pan.
Transfer the dough to the pizza pan.
Build up the edges slightly and prick the dough generously with a fork. Do not let it rise.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Spread the pizza sauce over the hot crust.
Top with ham, green sweet pepper rings, and pineapple tidbits.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan or Romano cheese.
Bake for about 12 minutes more or until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly.

Variations

Add some cooked bacon or Canadian bacon for an extra meaty flavor.
Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or shrimp for a different twist.
For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more veggies like mushrooms, olives, and spinach.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the pineapple tidbits well before adding them to the pizza to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pizza dough before adding the toppings.

- Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. Add some sliced onions, bell peppers, or even jalapenos for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal. Pair it with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat the oven to ensure that the pizza cooks evenly and the cheese melts properly.

- Use a pizza stone or baking sheet to help achieve a crispy crust.

- Rotate the pizza halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought pizza dough or a pre-made crust if you're short on time.

- Substitute the pizza sauce with barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.

- Use different types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or feta for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the pizza dough and toppings ahead of time and assemble the pizza just before baking. Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pizza into wedges and serve on a wooden cutting board for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity red wine like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water or fruit-infused iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza contains approximately 300 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the size of the slice and the amount of toppings added.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the pizza crust and pineapple tidbits.

Fats

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza contains approximately 12 grams of fat. The fat content primarily comes from the cheese and ham toppings.

Proteins

Each serving of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza contains approximately 15 grams of protein. The protein content mainly comes from the ham and cheese toppings.

Vitamins and minerals

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. The cheese provides calcium, while the pineapple and sweet pepper toppings offer a healthy dose of vitamin C and A.

Alergens

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza contains dairy (cheese), gluten (pizza crust), and pork (ham) allergens. Please be mindful of these allergens if you or your guests have dietary restrictions.

Summary

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoying this pizza in moderation can be a tasty and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make pizza recipe that combines the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, ham, and cheese. This tropical twist on a classic pizza is perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. Enjoy this flavorful pizza with your favorite side dishes and beverages for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Clara who had recently returned from a trip to Hawaii. As we sat in her kitchen catching up over a cup of tea, she suddenly mentioned that she had a new recipe to share with me - one that she had learned during her travels.

I was intrigued, as Clara was an excellent cook and I always trusted her taste in recipes. She told me that she had learned how to make a Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza from a local chef on the island of Maui. It sounded exotic and delicious, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

Clara handed me a yellowed piece of paper with the handwritten recipe on it. It was a simple list of ingredients - pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, ham, pineapple, and a sprinkle of oregano. The method was straightforward as well - spread the sauce on the dough, top with cheese, ham, and pineapple, sprinkle with oregano, and bake until golden brown.

I thanked Clara profusely for sharing the recipe with me and promised to try it out soon. That evening, I went home and gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza. As I rolled out the dough and spread the sauce, the sweet smell of pineapple filled the air, transporting me back to the tropical paradise of Hawaii.

I carefully arranged the ham and pineapple on top of the pizza, making sure to evenly distribute the ingredients. As I sprinkled the oregano over the final creation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This pizza was unlike any I had ever made before, and I had a feeling it was going to be a hit.

I slid the pizza into the oven and watched as the cheese melted and bubbled, creating a golden crust on top. The scent that wafted from the oven was irresistible, and I knew that this pizza was going to be something special.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza out of the oven and marveled at its beauty. The cheese had melted perfectly, and the pineapple glistened in the light. I couldn't wait to take a bite.

As I sat down at the table and took my first bite of the pizza, I was instantly transported back to Hawaii. The sweetness of the pineapple paired perfectly with the saltiness of the ham, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth. The oregano added a touch of herbiness that tied everything together, making this pizza a true masterpiece.

I knew that I had stumbled upon something special with this recipe, and I made a mental note to share it with my friends and family. As I finished my slice of Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza, I couldn't help but feel grateful for my friendship with Clara and the culinary adventures it had led me on.

From that day on, Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for parties, family gatherings, and even just for myself on lazy evenings when I craved a taste of the tropics. Each time I made it, I thought of Clara and the magical moment when she had shared the recipe with me.

Years passed, and I continued to make the Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza with the same passion and love that I had on that first day. It became a beloved dish in my family, with my grandchildren eagerly awaiting the day when Grandma would make her famous pizza.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories it has given me. The Hawaiian Pineapple Pizza is more than just a dish - it's a reminder of the friendships, adventures, and flavors that have enriched my life.

And as I take another bite of the pizza, savoring the sweet and savory combination of pineapple and ham, I can't help but smile. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy that cooking and sharing good food can bring.