Seafood Pizza

Seafood Pizza

Seafood pizza is a delectable fusion of fresh seafood and classic pizza, perfect for seafood lovers and adventurous eaters alike.

This dish combines the crispy, chewy goodness of a well-baked crust with a medley of flavorful seafood, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

The origins of pizza can be traced back to Italy, where various toppings are celebrated. Over the years, seafood has become a popular topping in coastal regions, providing a unique twist on the traditional pizza experience.

From shrimp to calamari, this seafood pizza recipe can be easily customized to include your favorite ocean delights, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner for family or hosting friends for a fun pizza night, this seafood pizza recipe is sure to impress. With fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can bring a taste of the coast right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough:

• All-purpose flour – 3 ½ cups (440g)
• Warm water – 1 ½ cups (350ml)
• Active dry yeast – 2 teaspoons
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Sugar – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – 1 teaspoon

For the Toppings:

• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for brushing the crust)
• Tomato sauce – 1 cup (homemade or store-bought)
• Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups (shredded)
• Shrimp – 8 ounces (about 225g), peeled and deveined
• Scallops – 8 ounces (about 225g), chopped
• Calamari – 8 ounces (about 225g), sliced into rings
• Fresh basil – ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes – for sprinkling (optional)
• Lemon wedges – for serving

How to Make Seafood Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.

Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. Then, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

Step 3: Prepare the Seafood

While the dough is rising, prepare your seafood. If using raw shrimp, scallops, and calamari, you can sauté them lightly in a pan with a splash of olive oil, just until they turn opaque (about 2-3 minutes). Season with a little salt and pepper, then set aside.

If using pre-cooked seafood, simply chop or slice as needed and set aside.

Step 4: Shape the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into two portions for two pizzas or keep it whole for one large pizza.

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 12-14 inches for a standard pizza). Transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

Brush the rolled-out dough lightly with olive oil to create a barrier that prevents the crust from getting soggy.

Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the sautéed seafood (or raw seafood if you prefer). Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

If making multiple pizzas, repeat the assembly and baking process.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if desired.

Slice and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Chef’s Note

Creating the perfect seafood pizza requires fresh ingredients, so choose high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with different seafood combinations based on your preferences or what is available in your area. You can also customize the sauce by adding herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.

For a bit of crunch, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving. The key to a great seafood pizza is ensuring the seafood is not overcooked, especially if you’re using raw ingredients. It will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooking during the sauté step is ideal.

Storage Tip: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to restore the crust’s crispness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 900mg

Seafood is a fantastic source of lean protein, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. This pizza is not only satisfying but also provides a nutritious alternative to traditional pizza.

Conclusion

Seafood pizza is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering a combination of flavors that is both rich and refreshing. This recipe allows you to showcase a variety of seafood while providing an easy-to-make meal that is perfect for sharing. Gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and enjoy a slice of the ocean with this delicious seafood pizza!

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