Chimichurri is a bold, herbaceous sauce originating from Argentina that is typically served with grilled meats. Check out our Chimichurri Sauce Recipe for a traditional version. In recent years, it has found its way into other culinary applications, including pizza, offering a fresh and zesty alternative to the classic tomato sauce. Combined with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, this chimichurri tomato pizza recipe gives pizza lovers a new and exciting flavor experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps of making chimichurri tomato pizza, from preparing the ingredients to baking the perfect pie. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is both simple to follow and delicious. By the end, you’ll have a pizza that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Choose Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe for Your Next Pizza Night?
Chimichurri Sauce: A Flavorful Twist on Traditional Pizza
Chimichurri sauce is best known for its role in South American cuisine, especially as an accompaniment to grilled meats like steak. The sauce is made from a blend of parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, which gives it a fresh, tangy, and herb-forward flavor. When used in a pizza, chimichurri offers a bold contrast to the traditional tomato-based sauce. Explore our global sauce recipes for more inspiration.
What to Expect from This Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
This recipe for chimichurri tomato pizza brings together the vibrant flavors of chimichurri, the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, and the creamy richness of mozzarella. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. You’ll also learn how to customize your pizza with various toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients Overview for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Key Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
To make a traditional chimichurri sauce for your pizza, you’ll need:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oregano (fresh or dried)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients form the base of the sauce, which can be adjusted to suit your personal flavor preferences. For example, you can add more garlic for a pungent kick or increase the red pepper flakes for heat.
Selecting the Best Tomatoes for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
For the tomato component of this pizza, opt for San Marzano or plum tomatoes. These varieties are naturally sweet, low in water content, and have fewer seeds, making them perfect for pizza. Thinly slicing the tomatoes helps them cook evenly and prevents the pizza from becoming soggy. Learn about choosing the best tomatoes for pizza.
Essential Cheese and Other Toppings
Fresh mozzarella is ideal for this pizza due to its creamy texture and mild flavor, which balances the tanginess of the chimichurri sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds depth and nuttiness. For additional flavor, consider toppings like arugula, red onions, or mushrooms.
How to Make Chimichurri Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide for Your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Step-by-Step Chimichurri Recipe
Making chimichurri sauce at home is simple, and it only takes a few minutes to whip up.
- Chop the parsley and garlic: Finely chop the parsley and garlic so that they distribute evenly throughout the sauce.
- Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Adjust the amount of vinegar or olive oil as needed.
- Let it sit: Allow the sauce to sit for at least 15 minutes before using it on the pizza. This resting time helps the flavors meld together. For more sauce ideas, see our complete sauce guide.
Preparing the Pizza Dough for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Homemade Dough vs. Store-bought Pizza Dough
While homemade pizza dough is a labor of love, store-bought options can be just as effective when time is limited. Here’s a simple homemade dough recipe for those who want to start from scratch. You can also explore our homemade pizza dough recipe. Here’s a simple homemade dough recipe for those who want to start from scratch:
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Rolling and Prepping the Dough for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. For a crispier crust, roll it thinner. If you prefer a chewier crust, keep it a little thicker. Pre-bake the dough for about 5 minutes at 450°F to ensure a crispy base.
Assembling and Baking the Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Layering Chimichurri, Tomatoes, and Cheese
Now that your dough is prepped and your chimichurri sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the pizza.
- Spread the chimichurri: Use a spoon to spread a generous layer of chimichurri sauce over the pre-baked pizza crust, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add the tomatoes: Evenly distribute thinly sliced San Marzano or plum tomatoes over the sauce.
- Top with cheese: Add torn pieces of mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
Baking the Pizza to Perfection
Bake the assembled pizza at 450°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. The chimichurri should remain vibrant, and the tomatoes should soften slightly, releasing their sweet juices without making the pizza soggy.
Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
To make this pizza vegetarian, stick with vegetable-based toppings like roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the regular dough with a gluten-free alternative. There are many store-bought gluten-free pizza crusts available, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour. Discover our gluten-free pizza crust recipe.
Adding Meats Like Steak or Chicken
For meat lovers, grilled steak or chicken pairs wonderfully with chimichurri sauce. Simply cook the meat beforehand and add it to the pizza along with the tomatoes and cheese. The rich, savory flavor of the meat complements the tangy chimichurri and creamy cheese. Learn how to perfectly grill steak or chicken for your pizza.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients in Your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza
Freshness is key when it comes to the ingredients in your chimichurri tomato pizza. Since the chimichurri sauce relies on fresh parsley, garlic, and oregano, you’ll want to make sure your herbs are crisp and fragrant for the best flavor. The same goes for your tomatoes—choose ripe, in-season varieties like San Marzano or plum tomatoes, which are naturally sweet and packed with flavor.
Pizza Stone vs. Baking Sheet for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
For a perfectly crisp crust, use a pizza stone if you have one. A pizza stone absorbs and distributes heat evenly, which helps the crust cook uniformly. If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet, but the crust might not be as crisp. Preheating the baking sheet in the oven before placing the pizza on it can help simulate some of the effects of a pizza stone.
Future Trends in Pizza Toppings: Experimenting with Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
Experimenting with Global Flavors in Pizza Recipes
As global cuisine continues to influence pizza trends, toppings like chimichurri are becoming more common. With its origins in South American cuisine, chimichurri represents just one of the many ways international flavors can breathe new life into pizza. Beyond chimichurri, consider experimenting with other global sauces and ingredients, like pesto from Italy, harissa from North Africa, or salsa verde from Mexico. These bold, flavorful sauces can easily replace traditional tomato sauce to create entirely new pizza experiences.
Chimichurri Sauce as a Sauce for Other Cuisines
Chimichurri’s versatility extends beyond pizza. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and even as a dipping sauce for empanadas. Its fresh, tangy profile also pairs well with grilled vegetables and seafood. Don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen—chimichurri can elevate a wide range of meals with its distinct herbal kick.
Conclusion: A Bold and Flavorful Pizza Experience
In summary, this chimichurri tomato pizza recipe is a game-changer for pizza lovers looking to experiment with new flavors. By replacing traditional pizza sauce with chimichurri, you’ll add a layer of boldness and zest that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can keep it simple with tomatoes and cheese, or add your favorite toppings like steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
Call to Action: Try the Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe Tonight
Ready to step up your pizza game? Gather your ingredients, prepare your chimichurri sauce, and give this recipe a try. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night with friends or just looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, this chimichurri tomato pizza recipe is guaranteed to impress.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe
1. Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes, chimichurri sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. In fact, allowing the sauce to sit for a few hours can help the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
2. Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Absolutely! Pizza dough can be frozen for up to three months. After kneading the dough, simply shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to use it, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before rolling it out. Learn more in our guide to freezing food.
3. What can I serve with chimichurri tomato pizza?
This pizza pairs well with a simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or extra chimichurri sauce for dipping the crust.