Paneer Pesto Pizza Recipe
Paneer pesto pizza is a vegetarian Indian–Italian fusion pizza made with fresh basil pesto sauce, marinated paneer, melted cheese, and colorful vegetables baked on a crispy pizza base.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 medium pizzas
- Category: Main / Snack
- Cuisine: Fusion (Indian–Italian)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
- 2 pizza bases (thin crust or regular, homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
For the Pesto Sauce
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (or spinach for variation)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or cashews
- 2–3 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Paneer Topping
- 200 grams paneer (cubed or thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Cheese & Additional Toppings
- 1½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers (red/yellow preferred)
- ¼ cup sliced onions
- 6–8 cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Black olives (optional)
For Garnishing (After Baking)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Chili oil or olive oil drizzle
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Sauce
- Add basil leaves, nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to a blender.
- Blend while slowly adding olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add lemon juice if needed.
- Set aside. The pesto should be thick but spreadable.
Step 2: Prepare the Paneer
- In a bowl, combine paneer, olive oil, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and oregano.
- Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Optional but recommended: lightly sauté or grill paneer for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden. This enhances flavor and removes excess moisture.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 220°C / 430°F for at least 10 minutes.
- Place a baking tray or pizza stone inside while preheating.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Brush pizza base lightly with olive oil.
- Spread a thin, even layer of pesto sauce over the base.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Arrange paneer evenly over the pizza.
- Add vegetables and olives.
- Top with remaining cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Place pizza on preheated tray or stone.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until:
- Cheese is melted and bubbly
- Crust edges are golden and crisp
Step 6: Finish & Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil or chili oil.
- Slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Don’t overload toppings—paneer pesto pizza shines with balance.
- For extra flavor, mix 1 tablespoon cream into the pesto.
- Use whole wheat or sourdough base for a healthier option.
- Add roasted garlic for a deeper, smoky taste.
Find it online: https://barashadas.com/paneer-pesto-pizza-recipe/