Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPacino's Italian RestaurantAl Fresco Pizza Recipe

Al Fresco Pizza Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

A refined and flavorful pizza featuring creamy mascarpone cheese and melted mozzarella, topped with sweet caramelized onions, earthy roasted mushrooms, and a handful of fresh arugula. Drizzled with a luscious fig glaze for a touch of sweetness, this pizza offers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Pizza Dough

Method

Pizza Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Combine and Knead Dough

    Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until combined, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

  4. 4

    Let Dough Rise

    Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Topping Preparation

  1. 5

    Caramelize Onions

    In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the thinly sliced onion. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes or until onions are golden brown and caramelized.

  2. 6

    Sauté Mushrooms

    In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender and browned. Set aside.

Assemble and Bake Pizza

  1. 7

    Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

  2. 8

    Roll Out Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness (about 12 inches in diameter).

  3. 9

    Add Toppings

    Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the mascarpone cheese evenly over the surface, followed by the sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

  4. 10

    Bake Pizza

    Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

  5. 11

    Finish with Arugula and Fig Glaze

    Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh arugula. Drizzle with fig glaze before slicing and serving.

More from Pacino's Italian Restaurant