Description
Sardine Margherita is a unique Mediterranean-inspired pizza that combines the rich, savory flavor of sardines with fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. This comforting yet bold twist on a classic Margherita pizza offers a healthier option packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, perfect for quick preparation and impressing guests with its gourmet flair.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- Pizza dough: 1 fresh or store-bought dough ball (about 10-12 inches diameter)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
Toppings
- Fresh tomatoes: 2 medium ripe (Roma or plum), thinly sliced
- Fresh mozzarella: 6-8 ounces, torn or sliced
- Canned sardines in olive oil: 1 can (about 3.75 to 4 ounces), drained
- Fresh basil leaves: a handful for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, then transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone to prepare for toppings.
- Add Olive Oil and Garlic: Lightly brush the dough with olive oil, then spread the minced garlic evenly over the surface to infuse flavor into the crust.
- Layer Fresh Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Arrange thin slices of fresh tomatoes in a single layer over the dough. Follow with dollops or slices of fresh mozzarella, distributing evenly to create the classic Margherita base.
- Add the Sardines: Drain the canned sardines and distribute them evenly on top of the tomatoes and mozzarella, adding a salty, umami richness.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Once baked, scatter fresh basil leaves on top of the hot pizza to add aromatic, herbaceous notes that lift the flavors.
Notes
- Choose sardines packed in olive oil for better flavor and texture.
- Use a hot oven to achieve a crispy crust without drying toppings.
- Avoid overloading toppings to prevent soggy pizza and ensure even cooking.
- If possible, use fresh sardines filleted and lightly grilled or pan-fried for a fresher seafood taste.
- Let dough rest at room temperature before rolling for improved elasticity and rise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pizza
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Sardine pizza, Margherita twist, Mediterranean pizza, seafood pizza, easy pizza recipe, healthy pizza, omega-3 pizza