Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe: A Flavorful Fusion of Fresh Ingredients

Why Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Is a Must-Try

Chimichurri Tomato Pizza is a must-try because it elevates the classic pizza experience by infusing it with the vibrant, herbaceous flavors of chimichurri sauce. This Argentinian-inspired condiment, known for its freshness and bold taste, perfectly complements the rich, sweet notes of ripe tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that excites your palate.

Beyond the flavor, the pizza’s eye-catching presentation, with its lush green chimichurri drizzled atop a bed of red tomatoes and melted cheese, makes it a feast for the eyes as well. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous foodie, this combination promises to surprise and satisfy, offering a delicious new twist on a beloved favorite.

Best Chimichurri Tomato Pizza Recipe for Ultimate Flavor

Ingredients

• For the Chimichurri Sauce:
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pizza:
• 1 pre-made pizza dough
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Steps

1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:

In a food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until you have a smooth, well-blended sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

2. Preheat the Oven:

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

3. Prepare the Pizza Base:

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza peel or a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Arrange the tomato slices on top of the cheese.

5. Bake the Pizza:

Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot oven or onto the pizza stone, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

6. Add the Chimichurri and Finish:

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and generously drizzle the prepared chimichurri sauce over the top. Add fresh basil leaves for garnish if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the pizza and serve hot, allowing the bold flavors of the chimichurri and tomatoes to create a memorable dining experience.

How to Make Chimichurri for Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

Steps to Create the Perfect Chimichurri Sauce

1. Gather Your Ingredients:

• Ensure you have all the necessary fresh ingredients, including parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Having everything ready will streamline the preparation process.

2. Prepare the Herbs:

• Wash the parsley and cilantro thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to ensure they are moisture-free.

3. Chop the Garlic:

• Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them. This will make it easier for the food processor to blend them into the sauce.

4. Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor:

• Place the parsley, cilantro, and garlic into the food processor. Add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. You may adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

5. Pulse Until Smooth:

• Pulse the mixture in the food processor in short bursts until it reaches a smooth, yet slightly textured consistency. You want the herbs to be finely chopped but not completely pureed.

6. Season to Taste:

• Once blended, taste the chimichurri sauce and add salt and pepper to your liking. Blend briefly after seasoning to ensure even distribution.

7. Store or Use Immediately:

• If not using right away, transfer the chimichurri sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together even more.

By following these steps, you’ll master the art of creating a vibrant chimichurri sauce that will elevate any pizza it graces.

Chimichurri Tomato Pizza with Goat Cheese: A Perfect Pairing

Ingredients

• For the Chimichurri Sauce:
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pizza:
• 1 pre-made pizza dough
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Steps

1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:

In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

1. Preheat the Oven:

Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, let it heat up in the oven.

1. Roll Out Pizza Dough:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to the desired shape and thickness. Place it onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

1. Assemble the Pizza:

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly across the base, followed by the crumbled goat cheese. Arrange tomato slices on top.

1. Bake the Pizza:

Transfer the pizza carefully to the oven or onto the pizza stone. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

1. Finish with Chimichurri:

Remove the pizza and drizzle generously with the prepared chimichurri sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added fragrance and taste.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

Cut the pizza into slices and serve hot, relishing the harmonious blend of creamy goat cheese with the herbaceous and zesty flavors of chimichurri.

Chimichurri Sauce for Mexican-Inspired Pizza

Creating a chimichurri sauce for a Mexican-inspired pizza involves adding zesty flavors that complement traditional Mexican ingredients. The following steps guide you through crafting a sauce perfect for this culinary fusion:

1. Select Your Ingredients:

• Gather fresh parsley and cilantro, along with garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and jalapeño or serrano peppers for an authentic Mexican twist.

2. Prepare the Herbs:

• Thoroughly wash and dry the parsley and cilantro. Remove any tough stems to ensure a smooth consistency.

3. Dice the Peppers:

• Chop the jalapeño or serrano peppers finely, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. These peppers add a spicy kick that elevates the chimichurri sauce.

4. Combine in Food Processor:

• Place parsley, cilantro, garlic, diced peppers, and lime juice into a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until the mixture reaches your desired thickness.

5. Blend to Perfection:

• Pulse the mixture until you achieve a cohesive sauce, maintaining a slightly chunky texture for authenticity.

6. Season and Adjust:

• Taste the chimichurri and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add more lime juice if a tangier flavor is desired.

7. Store or Serve:

• Use the sauce immediately on your Mexican-inspired pizza or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld further.

Adding a Flank Steak Topping to Your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza

Elevate your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza by adding a savory flank steak topping. Follow these steps to incorporate this delicious protein:

1. Select and Marinate Flank Steak:

Choose a high-quality flank steak weighing approximately 1 to 1.5 pounds. Prepare a marinade using olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and a portion of the chimichurri sauce. Coat the steak evenly with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.

1. Preheat the Grill or Skillet:

Heat your grill to medium-high or prepare a cast-iron skillet over the stove. Ensure the surface is hot before cooking to achieve a perfect sear.

1. Cook the Steak:

Remove the flank steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill or sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on thickness and desired doneness. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare is 130°F (54°C).

1. Rest the Steak:

Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite.

1. Slice and Arrange:

Slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Arrange the slices over the baked Chimichurri Tomato Pizza just before serving.

1. Garnish and Serve:

Optional: Top the pizza with additional chimichurri sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately, enjoying the combination of juicy steak with the vibrant, herby pizza.

Lupillo’s Chimichurri: A Delicious Addition to Your Tomato Pizza

Crafting Lupillo’s Chimichurri is an exciting way to top your tomato pizza with a burst of bold, fresh flavors. Follow these simple steps to create this delectable sauce:

1. Gather Fresh Ingredients:

Begin with fresh parsley, cilantro, and garlic for an aromatic base. Add red onion, lime juice, and jalapeño for a spicy, tangy twist.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

Ensure all herbs are well-washed and dried. Chop the parsley, cilantro, and red onion finely. Mince the garlic and jalapeño, removing seeds if a milder flavor is preferred.

3. Mix and Blend:

In a bowl, combine the chopped herbs, red onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Pour lime juice over the mixture and add olive oil slowly, stirring continuously until the ingredients are well-blended.

4. Season and Taste:

Season with salt, black pepper, and ground cumin for depth. Adjust lime juice to taste for the perfect balance between acidity and spice.

5. Let it Rest:

Allow the chimichurri to rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for a few hours. This resting period improves flavor integration.

6. Finish Your Pizza:

Drizzle Lupillo’s Chimichurri over your tomato pizza just before serving. Optionally, top with additional chopped cilantro or parsley for extra freshness. Enjoy the delightful union of zesty herbs and juicy tomatoes in every bite.

Top Tips for Perfecting Chimichurri Tomato Pizza

Creating the ultimate Chimichurri Tomato Pizza involves attention to detail and a few handy tips to enhance your culinary experience:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:

Always opt for the freshest ingredients. Select ripe tomatoes for the sauce and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro to ensure vibrant flavors. Quality produce makes a remarkable difference in taste.

2. Balance the Heat:

When selecting peppers for the chimichurri, consider your heat preference. Use jalapeños for a milder kick, or serrano peppers if you enjoy a spicier punch. Removing the seeds can also help control the intensity.

3. Control the Chimichurri Consistency:

Adjust the amount of olive oil in your chimichurri to achieve the desired consistency. A thicker chimichurri will stay on top of the pizza better, while a runnier sauce will infuse more into every bite.

4. Master Pizza Dough:

Whether you make your own or use store-bought dough, ensure it is rolled out evenly to prevent uneven cooking. A thin crust will achieve the best balance with the topping flavors.

5. Achieve a Perfect Bake:

Preheat your oven to its highest setting for a crispy crust. A pizza stone can also help distribute heat evenly and absorb moisture, resulting in a professional-quality base.

By incorporating these tips, you can elevate your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza, making every slice a perfect union of zesty, savory, and fresh flavors.

Choosing the Best Tomatoes for Chimichurri Tomato Pizza

Selecting the right tomatoes is crucial to achieving a delicious Chimichurri Tomato Pizza. Follow these steps to ensure you choose the best tomatoes for your recipe:

1. Identify the Correct Varieties:

Opt for Roma, San Marzano, or plum tomatoes, which are known for their balanced sweetness and low moisture content. These varieties are ideal for sauces as they create a thick, rich base without becoming watery.

1. Check for Ripeness:

Choose tomatoes that are firm but not hard, with a deep color indicating ripeness. Avoid any that have blemishes or green areas, as these can affect the taste of your sauce.

1. Assess the Size:

Medium-sized tomatoes are usually preferable since they are easier to peel and chop evenly, ensuring a consistent sauce texture.

1. Smell for Aroma:

A pleasant, earthy aroma emanating from the stem end of the tomato indicates it’s ripe and flavorful, perfect for enhancing your chimichurri pizza.

1. Consider Locally-Sourced Options:

Whenever possible, purchase tomatoes from local farmers or markets. Locally-sourced produce is often fresher and more flavorful, enhancing the quality of your pizza.

By following these steps, you will be able to select tomatoes that contribute a robust and flavorful base, complementing the vibrant notes of the chimichurri sauce.

How to Make the Perfect Chimichurri Sauce for Pizza

Creating the perfect chimichurri sauce for your pizza involves selecting the right ingredients and following a few simple steps to ensure a flavorful outcome:

1. Choose Quality Fresh Ingredients:

Start with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro as the cornerstone of your sauce. Fresh garlic, red onion, and jalapeño contribute to the sauce’s bold flavor profile, while red wine vinegar and lime juice add a tangy twist.

1. Prep the Ingredients:

Thoroughly wash and dry the herbs to remove any dirt. Finely chop the parsley and cilantro, and mince the garlic and jalapeño. For a milder sauce, remove the seeds from the jalapeño.

1. Combine and Blend:

Mix the chopped herbs, garlic, and jalapeño in a bowl. Add the finely diced red onion and gradually pour in the olive oil, stirring the mixture to ensure even distribution. Add red wine vinegar or lime juice for a balance of acidity.

1. Season to Perfection:

Enhance the sauce with a taste of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of ground cumin. Adjust the seasoning based on your personal taste preferences, aiming for a well-rounded flavor.

1. Let it Rest:

Allow the chimichurri sauce to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate it for a few hours. This resting period is crucial for the flavors to meld together and develop a more robust taste.

1. Serve Over Pizza:

Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over your baked tomato pizza just before serving. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the vibrant, fresh taste that the sauce brings to your culinary creation.

By following these steps, you’ll create a chimichurri sauce that not only enhances your tomato pizza but also stands out as a versatile condiment for numerous dishes.

Creative Toppings to Elevate Your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza

Enhance the flavors of your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza by experimenting with creative toppings that add unique textures and tastes. Here’s a list of imaginative additions you can try:

1. Add a Cheese Variety:

Step away from traditional mozzarella and explore options like goat cheese or feta for a tangy contrast. A sprinkle of parmesan can also add a rich umami kick.

1. Incorporate Protein:

Add slices of grilled chicken or chorizo for a hearty and savory element. For a vegetarian twist, consider topping with sautéed mushrooms which absorb flavors wonderfully.

1. Include Seasonal Vegetables:

Roasted bell peppers, artichokes, or grilled zucchini can add a delightful burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch.

1. Infuse Some Spice:

Go bold with pickled jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the zesty chimichurri.

1. Top with a Fresh Twist:

After baking, finish with a handful of arugula or fresh basil leaves for a peppery and aromatic freshness.

1. Drizzle with Specialty Oils:

A light touch of truffle oil or balsamic glaze can elevate the pizza with complex, savory notes.

1. Garnish with Nuts or Seeds:

Toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds can add a unique texture and a nutty flavor that complements the herbs in the chimichurri.

By creatively mixing and matching these toppings, you can personalize your Chimichurri Tomato Pizza, turning it into a culinary masterpiece tailored to your taste preferences.

Chimichurri Tomato Pizza: Vegetarian and Meat Options

Creating a Chimichurri Tomato Pizza that aligns with both vegetarian and meat preferences is simple and rewarding. Follow these tailored steps to satisfy a variety of tastes:

Vegetarian Option:

1. Prepare the Base:

Start with a crisp, golden pizza crust as your base, lightly brushing it with olive oil.

1. Layer with Chimichurri and Tomatoes:

Spread a generous layer of chimichurri sauce over the crust, followed by an even distribution of sliced Roma or plum tomatoes.

1. Add Cheese:

Sprinkle a blend of your chosen cheeses such as goat cheese or feta for a tangy and creamy texture.

1. Incorporate Vegetables:

Scatter roasted red bell peppers, artichoke hearts, and grilled zucchini over the cheese for colorful and flavorful additions.

1. Season and Bake:

Season with black pepper and bake the pizza until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

1. Finish with Fresh Herbs:

Upon removing from the oven, top with fresh basil or arugula to infuse an aromatic freshness.

Meat Option:

1. Prepare the Base:

Begin with a traditional or whole-grain pizza crust, applying a light layer of olive oil for a golden finish.

1. Layer with Chimichurri and Tomatoes:

Spread the chimichurri sauce generously over the crust, ensuring an even coverage of sliced tomatoes.

1. Add Cheese and Protein:

Sprinkle mozzarella or a blend of cheeses, accompanied by slices of grilled chicken or chorizo for a protein-packed choice.

1. Include Vegetables:

Add sliced mushrooms sautéed in garlic, or roasted bell peppers to complement the savory meat.

1. Season and Bake:

Enhance with a dash of red pepper flakes for spice and bake until the protein is warmed through and the cheese is melted.

1. Top with Greens and Nuts:

Garnish with a handful of fresh basil or arugula and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an added layer of texture and taste.

By following these steps, you can easily create both vegetarian and meat versions of Chimichurri Tomato Pizza, ensuring everyone at the table is delighted.

Conclusion

Chimichurri Tomato Pizza is a delightful fusion of fresh, bold flavors that promises to become a favorite in your household. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or one loaded with flank steak, this pizza offers endless possibilities. Start with our step-by-step guide and tips, and soon you’ll be making perfect Chimichurri Tomato Pizzas at home. Ready to elevate your pizza game? Gather your ingredients and let’s get started. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make chimichurri sauce in advance?

Yes, chimichurri sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allowing it to sit can enhance the flavors, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to use it.

What type of crust works best for chimichurri tomato pizza?

You can use any pizza crust you prefer, but a crisp, thin crust often pairs well with the fresh and vibrant flavors of chimichurri sauce. Feel free to experiment with gluten-free or whole-grain options if desired.

Is there a vegan option for chimichurri tomato pizza?

Certainly! You can omit the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives to make a vegan-friendly chimichurri tomato pizza. Additionally, ensure your chimichurri sauce does not contain any animal products.

How can I store leftover pizza?

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy texture of the crust.

Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?

Yes, chimichurri sauce can be frozen in an airtight container or ice cube trays for easy portioning. Thaw in the refrigerator before using it on your homemade pizza or other dishes.