When it comes to innovative pizza toppings, people have tried just about everything—pineapple, anchovies, and even jalapeños. But what happens when you combine two unexpected ingredients: pickles and pie? Enter the pickle pie pizza, a quirky and delicious fusion that’s quickly gaining popularity among food lovers. Whether you’re a die-hard pizza fan looking for something new or someone who loves a good food experiment, this combination is sure to pique your interest.
In this post, we’ll explore what pickle pie pizza is, how to make it at home, its surprising health benefits, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you dive into this unique culinary experience.
What is Pickle Pie Pizza?
At first glance, pickle pie pizza might sound like an odd combination, but trust us—it works! This dish takes the beloved pizza and gives it a twist by adding pickles, typically along with a sweet, savory pie crust. Imagine the classic tangy taste of pickles paired with gooey cheese and a crunchy pizza crust, with a hint of sweetness from the pie-like elements.
The beauty of this creation is in its contrast of flavors. The sourness of the pickles, the savory cheese, and the sweetness of the pie crust come together to create a truly unique pizza experience. Some versions of pickle pie pizza incorporate additional elements like fried chicken or other toppings, but the basic idea revolves around the core elements of pickles, cheese, and dough.
How to Make Pickle Pie Pizza: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Ready to try making pickle pie pizza at home? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of dill pickles, sliced thinly
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sweet syrup (to mimic the pie crust sweetness)
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Prepare the dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. Shape it into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
- Season the crust: Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and paprika. This will add extra flavor to the crust and enhance the overall taste.
- Add the cream cheese (optional): If you’re using cream cheese, spread it evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top with pickles and cheese: Scatter the thinly sliced pickles across the dough. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, ensuring the pickles are well covered.
- Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Drizzle with honey: After removing the pizza from the oven, drizzle a bit of honey or syrup over the top to bring out the sweet pie-like element.
- Garnish and serve: Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh dill for an added pop of flavor. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade pickle pie pizza!
The Surprising Health Benefits of Pickle Pie Pizza
You might be wondering, “Can a dish like pickle pie pizza actually offer any health benefits?” While it’s certainly an indulgence, there are a few health perks that come with the ingredients used in this pizza.
- Pickles Are Packed with Probiotics: Pickles, especially when fermented, are an excellent source of probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can promote a healthy gut microbiome, which aids digestion and boosts your immune system. So, a few pickles on your pizza might actually be good for your gut health.
- Cheese Provides Calcium and Protein: Mozzarella cheese is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. It also provides protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth. Adding cheese to your pizza ensures you’re getting a nutrient boost along with all that delicious flavor.
- Honey is a Natural Sweetener: Instead of using processed sugars, the drizzle of honey on top of your pickle pie pizza offers a natural, healthier alternative. Honey contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a better choice for sweetening.
- Dill Promotes Digestive Health: Dill, the herb typically used to garnish pickle pie pizza, is known for its ability to soothe digestive issues. It has been traditionally used to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating. So, adding fresh dill to your pizza is a delicious way to support your digestive health.
While this pizza isn’t exactly low-calorie, it does have some redeeming qualities thanks to the ingredients used.
Pickle Pie Pizza Variations to Try
One of the fun things about pickle pie pizza is the endless possibilities for customization. Here are a few ideas to elevate your pizza experience:
- Pickle and Fried Chicken Pizza: Add crispy fried chicken pieces to your pizza for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The tangy pickles complement the rich flavor of the chicken, creating a balanced bite every time.
- Spicy Pickle Pie Pizza: If you love heat, try adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to your pizza. The spiciness will contrast with the sourness of the pickles and the sweetness of the honey, resulting in a pizza that’s both spicy and tangy.
- Vegan Pickle Pie Pizza: Swap out the mozzarella cheese for vegan cheese and use a dairy-free crust to make a plant-based version of pickle pie pizza. The pickles and cream cheese alternatives still deliver a delicious combination.
FAQs About Pickle Pie Pizza
1. Is pickle pie pizza a new trend?
Yes, pickle pie pizza is a relatively new food trend that’s gaining traction, especially among people who love trying new, unconventional pizza combinations. It combines the tang of pickles with the classic pizza base, making it a unique, fun option for adventurous eaters.
2. Can I make pickle pie pizza without cream cheese?
Absolutely! The cream cheese is optional and is only added to provide extra creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to skip it or use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
3. What kind of pickles should I use?
Dill pickles are most commonly used, as their sharp, tangy flavor complements the pizza’s other ingredients. However, you could also experiment with bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter version or even spicy pickles for an added kick.
4. Can I make the dough from scratch?
Yes, you can definitely make your pizza dough from scratch if you prefer! There are many easy pizza dough recipes available online, or you can buy pre-made dough to save time.
5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover pickle pie pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture.
Conclusion
Pickle pie pizza is a unique and fun twist on the classic pizza we all know and love. With its balance of tangy pickles, creamy cheese, and sweet honey, it’s a dish that’s as adventurous as it is delicious. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or experimenting with new toppings, this pizza is sure to bring something fresh to your kitchen.
Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to add your own spin to this quirky creation. Who knows? It might just become your new favorite pizza!