Imagine transforming ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that captures the essence of summer in just 25 minutes. This Grilled Summer Vegetable and Pesto Pizza isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, creamy pesto, and perfectly melted cheese together on a crispy grilled crust. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a restaurant-quality pizza that's surprisingly simple to create right in your own backyard!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Olive oil for grilling
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the vegetables by slicing zucchini and bell peppers into thin, even strips. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- Brush the pre-made pizza crust lightly with olive oil on both sides to help prevent sticking and promote crispy texture.
- Place the pizza crust directly on the preheated grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom develops light grill marks and becomes crispy.
- Carefully flip the crust using a large spatula. Quickly spread the pesto sauce evenly across the grilled side of the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Distribute sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the pesto sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the vegetables, ensuring even coverage.
- Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and vegetables are slightly charred.
- Remove the pizza from the grill using a large spatula or pizza peel. Let it rest for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, slice into wedges, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips
- Ensure your grill is clean and properly preheated to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Use a light touch with olive oil to prevent soggy crust while promoting a crispy texture.
- Have all ingredients prepared and ready before you start grilling to manage the quick cooking process.
- Don't overload the pizza with toppings—this can prevent even cooking and make the crust soggy.
- Keep a close eye on the pizza while grilling, as high heat can quickly burn the crust.
- Let the pizza rest for a minute or two after grilling to allow the cheese to set and make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
