Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEast Side Mario'sBalsamic Pesto Pizza Recipe

Balsamic Pesto Pizza Recipe

Inspired by East Side Mario's
Time45m
Serves4

Basil pesto, pizza mozzarella, caramelized onions, goat cheese, fresh arugula and balsamic drizzle.

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Ingredients

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Pizza Base

Method

Preparing the Pizza Base

  1. 1

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Dough

    On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Brush with Olive Oil

    Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil to help it crisp up during baking.

Caramelizing the Onions

  1. 4

    Cook the Onions

    In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until the onions are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat.

Assembling the Pizza

  1. 5

    Spread the Pesto

    Evenly spread the basil pesto over the prepared pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

  2. 6

    Add Mozzarella and Onions

    Sprinkle the pizza mozzarella cheese over the pesto and then add the caramelized onions evenly on top.

  3. 7

    Add Goat Cheese

    Crumble the goat cheese over the top of the pizza, distributing it evenly.

Baking the Pizza

  1. 8

    Bake the Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to the oven (or pizza stone) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finishing Touches

  1. 9

    Add Arugula and Balsamic Drizzle

    Once the pizza is out of the oven, top it with fresh arugula and drizzle with balsamic glaze before slicing.

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