Summer Peach Pizza

Summer Peach Pizza: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the season’s freshest ingredients, and what better way to do so than with a delicious Summer Peach Pizza? This unique twist on a classic favorite combines the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe peaches with the creamy goodness of mozzarella and goat cheese, all topped with a tangy balsamic reduction and fresh basil. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to impress guests at a summer gathering or simply want to enjoy a slice of something different, this Summer Peach Pizza is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 batch pizza dough (use your favorite recipe, or use mine here)
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced or grated
• 2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled
• 4 peaches, pitted and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped basil

Directions:

1. Prepare the Balsamic Reduction:
   • Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat.
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer until the vinegar has reduced to about 1/4 cup, approximately 20 minutes.
   • Set the balsamic reduction aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the pizza.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as your oven will go). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven and preheat it for at least 30 minutes to ensure it gets thoroughly hot.
3. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
   • Divide your pizza dough into tennis-ball-sized pieces.
   • On a lightly floured surface, take one piece of dough and punch it down to release any air bubbles.
   • Roll the dough out into a circle, approximately 1/4-inch thin. Place the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel or pan generously coated with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Lightly brush the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Top with sliced or grated mozzarella, crumbled goat cheese, and thinly sliced peaches.
   • Drizzle the pizza with the prepared balsamic reduction.
5. Bake the Pizza:
   • Place the pizza in the preheated oven. If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza directly onto the stone; otherwise, place it on the oven rack.
   • Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Finishing Touches:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and top it with freshly chopped basil.
   • Drizzle any remaining balsamic reduction over the pizza for an extra burst of flavor.
   • Slice and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Final Thoughts

This Summer Peach Pizza is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. The combination of sweet peaches, creamy cheeses, and tangy balsamic reduction is nothing short of delightful. It’s a great way to showcase the season’s best produce in a way that’s both unexpected and delicious. Give this recipe a try at your next summer gathering, and watch as it quickly becomes a hit with family and friends alike.

Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!