Pizza with Fig Jam and Prosciutto
Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Ideas
When I first tried combining fig jam with prosciutto on a pizza, I was amazed by the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the figs complements the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully, resulting in a gourmet pizza experience right in my kitchen. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent and fancy. With a crispy crust and a drizzle of balsamic reduction, this pizza has become a favorite in my home, perfect for both special occasions and relaxing nights in.
Making this fig jam and prosciutto pizza was a happy accident. I had an extra jar of fig jam and some leftover prosciutto, so I decided to experiment. The moment the pizza came out of the oven, the aroma was irresistible. The fig jam caramelized slightly, adding a comforting sweetness that paired perfectly with the sharpness of the cheese and the savory prosciutto. It was a revelation!
One tip I discovered is to let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the toppings to settle and results in a more cohesive slice. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, and you'll surely want to add this to your regular pizza rotation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delicious contrast of sweet figs and savory prosciutto
- Quick and easy to prepare for a gourmet experience
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or a cozy night in
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients significantly influences the flavor of your pizza. Opt for high-quality, fresh mozzarella that has not been sitting in water for too long, as this can affect the melting and texture. Instead, look for mozzarella packed in brine for added creaminess. Prosciutto should be of good quality as well; a well-cured or locally sourced option will impart richer flavors. The fig jam should contain real fruit without excessive added sugars, allowing the natural sweetness and texture to shine.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different fig preserves if you can't find fig jam. A more artisanal or homemade version can add depth to the flavor profile. If you're aiming for a savory twist, consider using a sharp cheese like gorgonzola instead of mozzarella, which will contrast beautifully with the figs while maintaining a hearty flavor balance.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Crust
Preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C) is essential for achieving a crispy crust. If you're using a pizza stone, allow it to heat up for at least 30 minutes so that it retains enough heat to give the base a good rise. This will help create a professional-quality pizza with golden, crispy edges. Keep an eye on your pizza during the final minutes of baking, looking for the cheese to bubble and the crust to turn a lovely golden brown.
If you find that your crust is browning too quickly, consider using a pizza screen or shifting the pizza to a lower rack in the oven for the last few minutes. For extra crunch, you can brush the edges of the crust with a little olive oil or garlic oil before baking. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the color.
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh arugula (for garnish)
- Balsamic reduction (for drizzling)
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
Assemble the Pizza
On a lightly floured surface, stretch the pre-made pizza crust to your desired shape. Place it on a baking sheet or pizza peel. Spread the fig jam evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
Add Toppings
Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese over the fig jam, followed by the prosciutto. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added flavor.
Bake the Pizza
Transfer the pizza to the oven (or onto the preheated pizza stone) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic reduction before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Slice and savor every bite!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings! Adding walnuts for crunch or a sprinkle of goat cheese can enhance the flavor profile even further.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza with Fig Jam and Prosciutto can be a standout centerpiece for any gathering. To elevate the dish further, pair it with a refreshing arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. This will add a nice peppery note that complements the sweetness of the figs and the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully. You might also consider serving it with a light white wine or a fruity rosé that can complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.
For an added touch, feel free to sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or rosemary right before serving. They provide an aromatic layer that can elevate the overall flavor experience, making it even more delightful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To ensure that the crust remains crispy when reheating, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will remove excess moisture and restore some of the original crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust chewy and soggy.
If you plan on making the pizza ahead of time, you can prepare the assembled pizza and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just remember not to add the arugula or balsamic reduction until after baking, as these fresh ingredients tend to wilt and lose their flavor when exposed to heat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough will give you a fresher taste and texture.
→ What cheese pairs well with fig jam?
Besides mozzarella, consider goat cheese or gorgonzola for a more robust flavor.
→ How do I store leftover pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ How can I make this gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free pizza crust available at most grocery stores. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Pizza with Fig Jam and Prosciutto
When I first tried combining fig jam with prosciutto on a pizza, I was amazed by the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the figs complements the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully, resulting in a gourmet pizza experience right in my kitchen. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent and fancy. With a crispy crust and a drizzle of balsamic reduction, this pizza has become a favorite in my home, perfect for both special occasions and relaxing nights in.
Created by: Genevieve Porter
Recipe Type: Inspired World Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pizza
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh arugula (for garnish)
- Balsamic reduction (for drizzling)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
On a lightly floured surface, stretch the pre-made pizza crust to your desired shape. Place it on a baking sheet or pizza peel. Spread the fig jam evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese over the fig jam, followed by the prosciutto. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added flavor.
Transfer the pizza to the oven (or onto the preheated pizza stone) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic reduction before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings! Adding walnuts for crunch or a sprinkle of goat cheese can enhance the flavor profile even further.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 15g