Did you know that incorporating seafood into your pizza can not only elevate its flavor profile but also boost your intake of essential omega-3 fatty acids?
In this blog post, we’ll be sharing our tried and tested Seafood Pizza. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pizza enthusiast, or simply looking to tantalize your taste buds, this seafood pizza recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
So, put on your apron, preheat the oven, and let’s dive into the world of irresistible seafood pizza!
Seafood Pizza Ingredients
Before we get into the recipe, let’s make sure we have all the ingredients on hand. It’s simple, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry!
1. Yeast: Acts as the leavening agent, giving the pizza dough its rise and fluffy texture. For this recipe, use active dry yeast, dissolved in warm water to activate it before mixing with flour.
2. Bread Flour: Provides elasticity and strength to the dough, thanks to its high protein content, ensuring a chewy and substantial crust.
3. Olive Oil: Adds flavor and tenderizes the dough, contributing to a crispier crust. It is also used for sautéing garlic and seafood to enhance their flavors.
4. Butter: Used in combination with olive oil for sautéing, it adds richness and depth of flavor to the seafood topping.
5. Garlic: Offers a pungent, aromatic base that complements the seafood, sautéed lightly to mellow its bite and infuse the oil with flavor.
6. Shrimp or Prawns, Scallops: The stars of the pizza provide a sweet, tender contrast to the savory components.
7. Milk: A key ingredient in the white sauce base, offering a creamy, rich background that pairs beautifully with the seafood.
8. Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a gooey, melty consistency and a mild taste that doesn’t overshadow the delicate flavors of the seafood.
9. Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes add a light acidity and moisture. They can be thinly sliced or chopped and scattered atop the pizza for a burst of freshness.
10. Onions: Caramelized onions offer sweetness and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the pizza.
11. Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but a fresh, herbal note that balances the rich and savory flavors of the pizza.
How To Make Seafood Pizza?
Now that we have all our ingredients let’s get into the recipe! This Seafood Pizza can be made with just a few easy steps:
1. To Make the Pizza Dough
- Start the dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the measured bread flour, active dry yeast, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients slightly before adding the next components.
- Add liquids
Pour in the olive oil and then slowly add warm water.
Begin mixing at a low speed.
If the dough appears too wet or sticky, you can add a bit more flour but do so sparingly. The dough should be slightly sticky but not adhere excessively to the sides of the bowl.
- Knead the dough
Continue kneading the dough in the mixer on a low speed for about 10 minutes. What you’re looking for is a dough that forms into a smooth, cohesive ball.
Once achieved, touch the dough lightly with a floured finger. If it springs back slightly but remains intact, it’s ready for the next step.
- First Rise
Transfer the dough gently into a bowl that’s been lightly coated with olive oil. This prevents the dough from sticking to the sides as it rises.
Cover the bowl securely with a clean kitchen towel.
Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area in your kitchen and allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size, typically taking 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Shape and Rest
Once the dough has risen and doubled in size, lightly flour your work surface.
Turn the dough out onto this floured surface, being careful to handle it gently to avoid deflating it too much.
Divide the dough evenly into 4 sections, then shape each section into a neat ball.
Cover these dough balls with a kitchen towel and allow them to rest for about 20 minutes.
- Roll and Prep for Toppings
After the resting period, use a rolling pin to gently roll each ball of dough out into a circle (or whichever shape you prefer for your pizza).
Transfer these rolled-out dough bases onto parchment-lined baking sheets or pizza pans, making them ready for your toppings.
2. To Cook The Seafood Pizza Toppings
- Prepare the Seafood
Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium heat.
Add a mixture of butter and olive oil.
Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, add the garlic and sauté until it’s lightly golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Next, gently add the shrimp or prawns and scallops to the skillet.
Cook, stirring occasionally, just until they turn opaque and are lightly browned, approximately 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Sauté Additional Toppings
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions.
Sauté until they are soft and golden, about 5 minutes. If using, add the tomatoes and cook just until they are slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Toppings
Return the cooked seafood to the skillet with the sautéed onions and tomatoes.
Gently mix to combine the ingredients, ensuring the seafood is evenly coated with the flavors of garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
- Final Prep Before Baking
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified for your pizza dough recipe.
Spoon the white sauce over the prepared pizza dough bases, spreading it evenly as your sauce layer.
Then, evenly distribute the seafood mixture atop the sauce.
Sprinkle generously with grated mozzarella cheese, and if desired, add a few fresh tomato slices and a sprinkle of parsley for color and freshness.
3. To Make The White Sauce
To make the white sauce for the pizza, follow these steps:
- Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Ensure it melts completely without browning.
- Add Flour
Mix two tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth mixture known as a roux.
Allow it to cook for approximately one minute to eliminate the raw flour flavor, ensuring it does not brown.
- Incorporate Milk
Gradually add one cup of milk, whisking constantly to ensure the mixture stays smooth and there are no lumps.
Keep the heat on medium and continue to whisk as the sauce begins to thicken.
- Season
Once the sauce has reached a creamy consistency, reduce the heat to low. Stir in a pinch of salt, some cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of nutmeg to taste. You can also add a clove of minced garlic for an aromatic flavor.
- Cheese it Up
For a richer sauce, stir in a half cup of grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese until it’s completely melted into the sauce.
- Final Adjustments
Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Your white sauce is now ready to be spread onto your pizza base.
4. To Bake The pizzas
To bake the pizzas, here are some steps:
- Preheat Oven
Ensure your oven is preheated to the temperature recommended by your pizza dough recipe, generally between 475°F to 500°F (245°C to 260°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Bake on Parchment
Place your pizza(s), on parchment paper, directly on the middle rack of the oven, or use a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet for an even crispier bottom.
- Baking Time
Bake the pizza for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown. Keep a close eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Rotating for Even Cooking
Halfway through baking, rotate your pizza 180 degrees to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Broil (Optional)
For an extra golden top, switch your oven to broil for the last minute or two of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Cool Before Serving
Once removed from the oven, allow the pizza to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before cutting. This step helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy your delicious homemade seafood pizza fresh out of the oven!
Pro Tips For Perfect Seafood Pizza
Crafting the perfect seafood pizza recipe requires a blend of patience, quality ingredients, and a few insider tricks.
Make sure to properly prepare your seafood before adding it to your pizza; deveining shrimp and thoroughly patting dry any scallops or fish will ensure they cook evenly and retain their delectable texture.
When applying the white sauce, less is more to prevent a soggy crust; aim for a thin, even layer that leaves room for the seafood to shine.
Another pro tip is to pre-cook your seafood slightly less than you normally would since it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing an overcooked, rubbery texture.
Lastly, incorporating fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil not only adds a burst of freshness but also complements the seafood with a herby undertone.
Remember, the key to a remarkable seafood pizza is harmonizing flavors while preserving the integrity of each ingredient, creating a memorable dining experience with every bite.
What To Serve With Seafood Pizza?
If you want your easy seafood pizza recipe to be the star of a larger meal, or you’re looking for some sides to serve alongside it, we are here to help you with some ideas.
Serving seafood pizza allows for a delightful exploration of flavors, especially when paired with the right side dishes.
Fresh salads, with their crisp textures and light dressings, make excellent companions to the rich and savory notes of seafood pizza. A Fresh peach Caprese salad or a strawberry salad with rhubarb dressing can introduce a sweet and tangy contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For a more refreshing choice, a watermelon salad with goat cheese, watercress, and mint not only offers a burst of freshness but also a creamy texture that complements the seafood’s succulence.
These pairings not only balance the flavors but also add a colorful presentation to your meal, making it both visually appealing and gastronomically satisfying.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the seafood pizza recipe detailed above offers a culinary adventure that marries the crispiness of a golden crust with the delicate flavors of the ocean. By following the steps and tips, even novice cooks can serve up a slice of this gourmet delight.
It’s a dining experience that promises to transport your senses to the seaside, with each bite offering a blend of creamy sauce, succulent seafood, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a unique dinner or a special occasion, seafood pizza is sure to impress.
Seafood Pizza
Ingredients
- Yeast: 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- Bread Flour: 3 cups (360 grams)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for the dough, plus extra for drizzling
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Shrimp or Prawns, Scallops: 1/2 pound (225 grams) each, cleaned and prepped
- Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) shredded
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, diced
- Onions: 1 small, finely chopped
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, freshly chopped
Instructions
- Make the Pizza Dough: Before you start with the toppings or sauce, ensure you have your pizza dough ready. Follow your favorite recipe or use store-bought dough, letting it rest until it reaches room temperature, making it easier to handle and shape.
- Cook the Seafood Pizza Toppings: Start by sautéing garlic in a mixture of butter and olive oil, then cook the shrimp or prawns and scallops until just opaque. Set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions and optionally tomatoes, combining them with the cooked seafood afterward.
- Make the White Sauce for the Pizza: In a saucepan, create a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, adding grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for richness.
- To Bake the Pizzas: Preheat your oven as per the dough's instructions, typically between 475°F to 500°F. Transfer the assembled pizzas with their toppings and sauce onto parchment paper or a preheated baking surface, and bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Rotate halfway for even cooking and optionally broil for a golden top. Allow to cool briefly before serving.