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Are you ready to elevate your pizza game with a burst of fresh flavors? The Sun-Kissed Cherry Tomato Pesto Pizza is not just another dish; it’s a celebration of summer's bounty, featuring vibrant cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil. This delightful pizza combines the rich, nutty taste of homemade pesto with the sweet juiciness of sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.

Cherry Tomato Pesto Pizza

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with a homemade Sun-Kissed Cherry Tomato Pesto Pizza. This delightful recipe blends juicy cherry tomatoes with aromatic basil pesto, creating a deliciously fresh dish perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, this pizza not only tastes amazing but is also nutritious. Roll out your dough, spread that luscious pesto, and enjoy every colorful bite of this seasonal masterpiece.
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Ingredients
  

1 store-bought pizza dough (or homemade for the adventurous)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1 clove garlic, peeled

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted for added depth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Optional toppings: fresh arugula, balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C), placing a pizza stone inside if you have one. Let it heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure an evenly cooked crust.

    Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, peeled garlic, toasted pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. With the processor running, gradually drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is a smooth, vibrant green paste. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

      Prepare the Dough: If you’re using store-bought dough, lightly flour a work surface and roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter, or to your desired thickness. For homemade dough, shape it according to your recipe specifications.

        Assemble the Pizza: Spread a generous layer of the freshly made basil pesto over the top of the rolled-out pizza dough, leaving a small edge around the perimeter for a crust. Evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes across the pesto, and finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

          Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

            Dress and Serve: Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about a minute. If you wish, adorn it with fresh arugula, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Slice into wedges and serve hot, enjoying the delightful burst of flavors!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 2-4

                - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the pizza on a wooden board and garnish with extra basil leaves or a few cherry tomatoes for a vibrant look.