How to Make Grilled Caprese Salad Pizza: Tips, Tricks, and Recipe
Discover the art of making grilled Caprese salad pizza with fresh ingredients, expert grilling tips, and step-by-step instructions for a perfect, vibrant meal.
How to Make Grilled Caprese Salad Pizza
If you’re searching for a dish that captures the essence of warm-weather dining, look no further than grilled Caprese salad pizza. Blending the classic flavors of a Caprese salad—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy drizzle of balsamic—with the smoky crispness of grilled pizza, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. Whether served as a main course or sliced into wedges for a delightful appetizer, it’s the perfect dish for sharing al fresco.
Why Grilled Caprese Pizza is a Summer Favorite
Grilled Caprese pizza shines for several reasons:
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients: Summer’s peak produce makes every bite aromatic and flavorful.
- No oven required: Avoid heating up your kitchen with this fun grilling method.
- Fast and easy: Prep and cook time is minimal, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
- Versatile: Works as a light dinner, appetizer, or party snack. Pair with a glass of wine for a true Italian-inspired experience.
Essential Ingredients
The beauty of this pizza lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought; regular or gluten-free)
- Pesto or high-quality olive oil
- Fresh mozzarella cheese (buffalo or cow’s milk, sliced)
- Ripe tomatoes (enough for generous layering, sliced ¼-½ inch thick; use a mix of colorful heirloom and cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color)
- Fresh basil leaves (whole or cut into ribbons, also called chiffonade)
- Balsamic glaze or aged balsamic vinegar for drizzling
- Olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
- Homemade basil oil (blend fresh basil with olive oil for an extra punch)
- Red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Garlic-infused oil for depth of flavor
Step-by-Step Grilled Caprese Salad Pizza Recipe
Follow these detailed instructions for grilled pizza perfection:
1. Prep the Grill
Preheat your grill to high (about 500°F/260°C). Make sure grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy crust and easy removal.
2. Prepare Your Dough
- Divide the dough: Cut your dough into two equal pieces for easier handling. Smaller crusts are less likely to stick or tear.
- Roll it out: Place each piece on an oiled sheet of parchment paper and roll into a 9- to 10-inch round or oblong shape, about ¼-inch thick. Brush the tops with a thin layer of olive oil for extra crispiness.
3. Get Toppings Ready
- Slice mozzarella and tomatoes before grilling and arrange them on plates.
- Keep basil leaves ready, whole or cut into thin ribbons.
- Have your pesto or oil, and balsamic glaze nearby—grilled pizza cooks quickly!
4. Grill the Dough
- Invert the dough onto the hot grill, oiled side down, and carefully peel away the parchment paper.
- Close the lid and grill for 1–2 minutes until there are bubbly pockets and visible grill marks on the bottom.
- Use tongs or a large spatula to flip the crust. Reduce the grill heat to medium.
5. Add Caprese Toppings
- Spread pesto (or a light layer of olive oil) on the grilled side of the dough immediately after flipping.
- Layer with mozzarella slices, then add tomato slices in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Finish Grilling
- Close the grill lid again and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp and golden. Take care not to burn the bottom—the pizza cooks fast!
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7. Add Fresh Basil and Balsamic
- Remove the grilled pizza to a cutting board. Scatter fresh basil all over while the cheese is still gooey.
- Finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze or aged balsamic vinegar for sweet and tangy balance.
8. Slice and Serve
- Cut the pizza into wedges or squares. Serve hot for best taste and crunch.
Expert Tips for the Best Grilled Pizza
- Oil is your friend: Always brush the dough and grill grates liberally with oil to prevent sticking and tearing.
- Keep toppings light: Use a single layer of cheese and tomatoes to ensure even cooking and a crisp base.
- Prep and organize: Have all ingredients ready and close to the grill—assembly is quick once you start.
- Choose fresh, firm tomatoes: Soft or overripe tomatoes may cause a soggy pizza.
- Use fresh mozzarella: Slice and gently pat dry fresh mozzarella before using to minimize excess moisture.
- Don’t skip the basil: Add just before serving to maintain its flavor and vibrancy.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Notes
A Caprese-style grilled pizza offers several nutritional advantages when made mindfully:
- Tomatoes provide Vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
- Mozzarella cheese is a source of protein and calcium, but opt for part-skim or buffalo mozzarella for lower fat content.
- Olive oil and pesto deliver healthy unsaturated fats—just use moderately to keep calories balanced.
- Fresh basil adds flavor with minimal calories, plus vitamin K and antioxidants.
For a lighter pizza, use less cheese, drizzle olive oil and balsamic sparingly, and choose a thinner crust or even a whole-wheat or cauliflower base.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Try different pestos: Use arugula, walnut, or sun-dried tomato pesto for a new twist.
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or prosciutto after grilling for a heartier meal.
- Seasonal veggies: Add slices of grilled eggplant, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add a few thin jalapeño slices before grilling.
- Make mini pizzas: Let guests customize their own small grilled Caprese pizzas at your next outdoor gathering.
Table: Ingredient Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Possible Substitution | Effect on Flavor/Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Mozzarella | Part-skim mozzarella or burrata | Lighter or creamier, depending on choice |
| Pesto | Garlic olive oil, basil oil, or tomato sauce | Simpler, lighter, or more tomato-forward |
| Fresh Tomatoes | Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes | Chewier, more concentrated tomato flavor |
| Balsamic Glaze | Aged balsamic vinegar or honey-balsamic reduction | Slightly different sweetness and tang |
| Pizza Dough | Gluten-free, whole-wheat, or cauliflower crust | Varies: lighter or more robust, gluten-free option |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Caprese pizza indoors?
A: Absolutely. Use a cast-iron skillet, pizza stone, or baking sheet in the oven at 450°F to 500°F, following the same toppings and timing guidelines. Broil briefly at the end for extra char.
Q: What type of tomatoes should I use?
A: Choose ripe but firm tomatoes such as Roma, heirloom, or a mix of cherry tomatoes. This prevents excess moisture and a soggy crust.
Q: How do I avoid soggy pizza on the grill?
A: Grill the crust first before adding toppings, use fresh mozzarella patted dry, and do not overload with sauce or wet ingredients.
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
A: Yes! Store-bought dough saves time and works well. Let it sit at room temperature for easier rolling and stretching.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a skillet or in a toaster oven for best results.
More Grilled Pizza Inspiration
- Grilled zucchini, ricotta, and pine nut pizza
- Fig, prosciutto, and goat cheese grilled pizza
- Grilled cherry, goat cheese, and arugula pizza
- Classic Margherita or bianca (white) pizza with grilled asparagus and lemon zest
Final Thoughts: The Joy of Grilled Caprese Pizza
Grilled Caprese salad pizza is a showstopper that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a little grilling know-how, you can transform traditional pizza night into a summer celebration bursting with the flavors of Italy. Let the simplicity and versatility of this dish inspire you to experiment with your own favorite toppings—and enjoy a season’s worth of memorable meals outdoors.
References
- https://reciperunner.com/grilled-caprese-pizza/
- https://www.feastingathome.com/caprese-pizza-with-oven-roasted-tomatoes/
- https://boulderlocavore.com/grilled-caprese-pizza/
- https://www.suncakemom.com/recipes/is-caprese-salad-actually-healthy-or-just-light/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a34164768/grilled-caprese-salad-pizza-recipe/
- https://kate-cooks.com/blog/grilled-caprese-pizza/
- https://www.suncakemom.com/recipes/the-best-protein-additions-for-a-more-filling-caprese-salad/
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