Ham, Olive, Asparagus and Ricotta Pizza

Indulge in a symphony of flavors and textures with the Ham, Asparagus, and Olive Pesto Pizza. This recipe artfully combines the savory allure of ham, the crisp freshness of asparagus, and the rich intensity of pitted Kalamata olives. A generously spread layer of basil pesto adds a burst of herbaceous goodness, while Perfect Italiano cheeses contribute a melty, creamy, and savory element. The crowning touch of dollops of Perfect Italiano Ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves transforms this pizza into a gourmet masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a culinary delight, this pizza is a delightful journey for your palate.

PREP 5MINS

COOK 15 MINS

MAKES 1 LARGE

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 large pizza base
• 3 tbsp basil pesto
• 100g ham, torn into large pieces
• 1/2 bunch asparagus, trimmed and chopped into thirds
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 250g Perfect Italiano Perfect Pizza cheese
• 1/3 cup Perfect Italiano Ricotta
• 6-8 basil leaves, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 250°C.
2. Spread the pizza base evenly with basil pesto, creating a flavorful base.
3. Arrange the torn ham, chopped asparagus, and pitted Kalamata olives over the pesto-covered base.
4. Scatter Perfect Italiano Perfect Pizza cheese evenly across the pizza to achieve a deliciously cheesy layer.
5. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the base is crispy.
6. Remove the pizza from the oven and add spoonfuls of Perfect Italiano Ricotta across the pizza, creating delightful pockets of creamy goodness.
7. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the pizza just before serving, infusing the dish with aromatic notes and visual appeal.

TIPS AND HINTS:

• Opt for a high-quality large pizza base that offers the perfect canvas for building layers of flavors and textures.
• When spreading the basil pesto on the pizza base, aim for an even and thin layer to ensure that the flavors are well-distributed.
• Tear the ham into larger pieces to create a rustic appearance and ensure that the ham’s flavor remains prominent on the pizza.
• Asparagus should be trimmed and chopped into thirds for even distribution across the pizza.
• Distribute the Kalamata olives evenly over the pizza to ensure that every bite contains a burst of tangy goodness.
• When scattering Perfect Italiano Perfect Pizza cheese over the pizza, ensure that it covers the entire base uniformly for a satisfyingly cheesy experience.
• Preheating the oven to 250°C is essential for achieving a crispy crust and ensuring even melting of the cheese.
• When removing the pizza from the oven, allow it to rest for a brief moment before adding the dollops of Perfect Italiano Ricotta. This helps prevent the ricotta from becoming overly melted.
• Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant and aromatic touch. Garnish the pizza just before serving to maintain their vibrant green color and distinct flavor.

Elevate your pizza experience with the Ham, Asparagus, and Olive Pesto Pizza, a creation that combines the richness of Italian cheeses, the depth of cured ham, and the brightness of fresh asparagus. This gourmet delight is an expression of culinary artistry that’s sure to delight the senses.