October is National Pizza Month, a time to celebrate the beloved cheesy, saucy delight that brings joy to millions. During this month-long celebration, restaurants and home cooks showcase their creativity with an array of delicious toppings and styles. Now is the perfect time to enjoy everyone’s favorite comfort food and try some not-so-ordinary toppings.
Why try unique toppings
Specialty pizzas like the Hawaiian pizza with its unique combination of ham and pineapple or the spicy pepperoni pizza cater to different tastes. Over the years, creative and unconventional toppings have emerged such as BBQ chicken, shrimp scampi or even macaroni and cheese.
Pizza with unique toppings offers a wide assortment of flavors. From savory options like Korean-inspired kimchi and pork belly to sweet choices like pear and gorgonzola, the possibilities are endless.
Experimenting with unconventional pizza toppings can spark your creativity in the kitchen. Trying out unusual combinations like fig and prosciutto or shrimp and pesto challenges your culinary skills and encourages you to think outside the box.
Sweet and savory combinations
Pairing unexpected ingredients can result in mouth-watering sweet and savory pizzas. Try combining cranberry sauce with creamy brie cheese and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a unique and delightful flavor profile.
For a more adventurous twist, consider topping your pizza with caramelized onions, crispy bacon and thinly sliced apples. The contrast between the sweet and salty flavors, along with the crunchiness of the apples, creates a unique custom blend.
To add a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over your pizza before baking it. This simple addition enhances the overall taste profile by balancing out the savory elements with a subtle sweetness.
Gourmet toppings for a luxurious treat
Try the exquisite combination of truffle oil drizzled over mushrooms, complemented by fresh basil leaves. The aroma alone will transport you to a high-end Italian restaurant, right in the comfort of your home.
Take your pizza to new heights by making a lobster and caviar personal pizza. The decadent flavors of lobster meat paired with the rich, briny pop of caviar create a culinary masterpiece fit for royalty.
Experience a harmonious blend of sweet and savory with prosciutto and fig toppings on your pizza. The saltiness of prosciutto perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe figs, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
Vegan and vegetarian options
Vegan and vegetarian options have become increasingly popular, especially during National Pizza Month. Many pizzerias now offer a variety of plant-based options to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
The vegan pizzas feature dairy-free cheese made from ingredients like cashews or almonds, offering a creamy and flavorful alternative to traditional cheese. These pizzas often include various fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach and tomatoes, providing a colorful and nutritious topping selection.
International flavor inspirations
Traditional Italian pizzas are characterized by their thin pizza dough crusts, fresh ingredients and simple yet delicious flavor profiles. Margherita pizza, topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves and olive oil, is a staple in Italian cuisine.
Greek toppings like feta cheese, olives, spinach and red onions bring a burst of zesty and tangy flavors to the table. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory and satisfying taste experience that appeals to many pizza enthusiasts.
With a fusion of bold and spicy flavors, Mexican-inspired pizzas are gaining popularity worldwide. Featuring toppings like jalapenos, chorizo, avocado and cilantro, these pizzas deliver a fiery kick that excites the taste buds. A carne asada pizza is the marriage of Mexican seasoned steak with gooey melted cheese.
Spicy and bold choices
Craving a fiery kick in your pizza? Spice up your slice with toppings like jalapenos, spicy sausage or even a drizzle of hot sauce. These hot picks will surely satisfy your taste buds if you’re a fan of bold flavors.
Looking to push the boundaries of flavor with your pizza choices? Try a spicy Thai curry pizza featuring coconut milk-based curry sauce, shrimp, bell peppers and cilantro for a fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to Southeast Asia.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweets, consider a dessert pizza with bold flavors like spicy chocolate chili pizza. Top a chocolate-hazelnut spread base with sliced strawberries, chopped hazelnuts and a sprinkle of chili powder for a unique dessert that balances sweetness with a hint of spice.
Have a unique slice today
National Pizza Month is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and explore a world of unique, exotic and gourmet toppings. From sweet and savory combinations to vegan and international inspirations, there’s a whole universe of flavors waiting for you to savor. Whether you prefer spicy and bold choices or fun and quirky toppings, this month is all about celebrating the versatility of everyone’s favorite dish.
Why not spice up your pizza nights with some adventurous toppings in a DIY pizza bar? Challenge your taste buds, surprise your friends and family and make this National Pizza Month a memorable culinary experience. Get creative, experiment with new ingredients and, most importantly, enjoy every delicious slice that comes your way!
Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author based in Connecticut. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa enjoys hiking and taking scenic day trips around New England.