As summer rolls around, we find ourselves eagerly putting away our winter coats and dusting off our grilling tools. There's something about cooking outdoors that transforms meals into delightful memories.
If you’re like me, you know that cooking isn’t solely about sustenance; it’s an experience, a ritual that brings people together. What’s more magical than the smell of freshly grilled pizza wafting through the warm evening air?
Grilled pizza is my go-to for relaxed gatherings with friends and family. This is not just any pizza; it’s a crispy, smoky delight that has flavors dancing on your palate. Whether hosting a backyard BBQ or a simple family dinner, grilled pizza is straightforward and always impresses.
Plus, it invites creativity. You can embark on a flavor adventure with toppings galore, making it a hit with everyone from picky kids to adventurous adults.
Let me take you on a journey to grill up your own pizza masterpiece. This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, each with its own story of flavor and health. From luscious mozzarella to spicy pepperoni, every element contributes to creating a culinary delight.
Before we start, let's talk about what to serve alongside your grand grilled pizza creation. A fresh green salad can lighten the meal; arugula with a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery kick.
If your gathering calls for something heartier, a pasta salad with chickpeas, bell peppers, and a tangy dressing always brings brightness. For beverages, a chilled lemonade or even a crisp white wine can balance the richness of the cheese and toppings.
With that tasty groundwork laid, let's dive into the recipe and the flavorful journey that awaits!
In preparing to grill pizza, let’s discuss the delightful cast of ingredients. Each serves a unique purpose, and their synergy is where the magic happened.
- 2 tablespoons premium extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound fresh pizza dough (about 450–500g)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or fine cornmeal (for dusting the baking sheet or pizza peel)
Toppings:
- ½ cup rich tomato sauce
- 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (best flavor)
- 1½ teaspoons fragrant mixed herbs (such as oregano, basil, or thyme)
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 20–25 slices of classic pepperoni
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Now, let’s get grilling! Here’s how I go about it, step-by-step. Each stage is packed with engagement and satisfaction, making this not just a cooking process but a joyful journey.
Begin by taking your fresh pizza dough out of the fridge. If it’s too cold, the dough will not rise effectively while grilling. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This is a great time to gather your other ingredients together.
While your dough is warming, fire up your grill. Aim for medium-high heat, around 450°F to 500°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let those coals achieve a nice glow. A properly heated grill is crucial for achieving that charred crust you want.
Once your dough has warmed up, place it on a lightly floured surface. Shape it into your desired round or rectangle. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick. I like to stretch it out with my hands; it feels more authentic!
Take some flour or cornmeal and dust your pizza peel (or an inverted baking sheet) generously to prevent sticking. Place your dough on the peel, ready to top it.
Now comes the fun part. Spread your rich tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously on top. Layer on the mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, pepperoni, olives, and sprinkle those fragrant mixed herbs over the entire creation. Don’t be shy!
Carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the heated grill. Close the lid and grill for about 10-15 minutes.
The time may vary depending on your grill heat and thickness of the dough. Watch for the cheese to melt and the crust to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Once grilled to perfection, remove the pizza from the grill using your peel. Let it cool for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to handle. Serve it up hot and share it with friends and family. Enjoy!
The beauty of grilled pizza is in its versatility. Here are just a few variations to spark your imagination:
Grilling pizza is about more than food; it’s an experience teeming with flavor, creativity, and community. It’s perfect for those summer evenings gathering with loved ones or just a relaxing night at home.
Armed with fresh ingredients and a grill, you have the essentials for crafting a pizza that will delight and satisfy.
This recipe is straightforward and adaptable, making it a go-to any time you want to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; after all, great food is best enjoyed together.
So fire up that grill, roll out that dough, and get ready for a pizza night you'll remember. Happy grilling!
As summer rolls around, we find ourselves eagerly putting away our winter coats and dusting off our grilling tools. There's something about cooking outdoors that transforms meals into delightful memories.
If you’re like me, you know that cooking isn’t solely about sustenance; it’s an experience, a ritual that brings people together. What’s more magical than the smell of freshly grilled pizza wafting through the warm evening air?
Grilled pizza is my go-to for relaxed gatherings with friends and family. This is not just any pizza; it’s a crispy, smoky delight that has flavors dancing on your palate. Whether hosting a backyard BBQ or a simple family dinner, grilled pizza is straightforward and always impresses.
Carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the heated grill. Close the lid and grill for about 10-15 minutes.
The time may vary depending on your grill heat and thickness of the dough. Watch for the cheese to melt and the crust to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Servings 5
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I'm Natasha Dunford, a registered dietitian from Rochelle Park, NJ, and the creator of Simple Easy Meals. My passion is helping busy individuals create delicious, nutritious meals that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Through my blog, I aim to simplify meal prep and inspire confidence in the kitchen!