Best Herbs to Use on a Pizza - Flavor-Boosting Spices
Posted on June 12th, 2024
Pizza is a beloved dish that has captivated taste buds worldwide for generations.
Its universal appeal lies in its versatility; from the simplest Margherita to the most elaborate gourmet creations, pizza offers endless possibilities.
While the crust, cheese, and sauce form the foundation, the true magic often lies in the finishing touches.
Herbs and spices can transform a good pizza into an extraordinary one, adding layers of flavour that excite the palate.
This article explores the best herbs and spices to use on a pizza and how they can turn a humble pie into a culinary masterpiece.
A Slice of History
The history of pizza is as rich and diverse as the flavours it embodies.
Originating in ancient civilisations, flatbreads have long been a staple food, but it was in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century that pizza as we know it today took shape. Initially a simple dish for the working class, it featured a basic flatbread topped with tomatoes, cheese, oil, and sometimes anchovies.
Over time, the addition of herbs became a culinary tradition, deeply rooted in Italian culture.
- Basil: This herb was favoured by Queen Margherita of Savoy, inspiring the creation of the Margherita pizza, a simple yet elegant dish that remains popular today.
- Oregano: Known for its robust and slightly bitter taste, oregano has been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries, perfectly complementing the flavours of tomato and cheese.
- Parsley: Though less common, parsley's bright and fresh taste balances richer toppings, making it a valuable addition to many pizza recipes.
The Importance of Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are the soul of a great pizza. They bring out the natural flavours of the ingredients, adding depth and complexity to every bite.
These small but mighty additions can turn a simple pizza into a gourmet delight. Whether it’s the fresh zing of basil or the fiery kick of crushed red pepper, herbs and spices play a crucial role in crafting a memorable pizza.
Let’s look at how these flavour boosters can transform your pizza from ordinary to extraordinary.
Best Herbs for Pizza
Adding the right herbs can completely transform your pizza. Here are some of the most popular herbs used in pizza-making and how they contribute to the overall taste.
- Oregano: Oregano is a quintessential pizza herb, bringing a robust and slightly bitter flavour with a hint of sweetness. It’s a cornerstone of Italian cuisine and pairs perfectly with tomato sauce, cheese, and meat toppings. To capture the authentic taste of a traditional pizzeria, sprinkle dried oregano over your pizza before baking. This herb’s aromatic properties will transport you straight to the heart of Naples with each bite.
- Basil: Basil offers a fresh, sweet, and slightly peppery taste that complements the richness of mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Unlike other herbs, fresh basil leaves are best added after baking to preserve their delicate flavour and vibrant colour. The moment you tear a few basil leaves over a hot Margherita pizza, you’ll understand why this herb is a favourite. Its fragrance alone is enough to elevate the entire dining experience.
- Parsley: Parsley might not be the first herb that comes to mind for pizza, but its bright, fresh flavour can balance richer toppings like sausage or pepperoni. Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled over your pizza just before serving provides a refreshing contrast to the savoury elements. Its subtle yet distinct taste makes it a versatile addition that complements the overall flavour profile without overwhelming the primary ingredients.
Best Spices for Pizza
Spices can add a new dimension to your pizza, providing warmth, heat, and a burst of flavour. Here are some essential spices that can take your pizza to the next level.
- Crushed Red Pepper: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes are the perfect addition. These fiery flakes add a spicy kick that complements the overall flavour profile without overpowering other ingredients. A light sprinkling of crushed red pepper can turn a regular pizza into a spicy treat, tantalising the taste buds and adding excitement to every bite.
- Parmesan Cheese: Although parmesan is technically a cheese, it is often used as a seasoning due to its strong, salty flavour. Grated parmesan can be added before or after baking to impart a savoury, umami-rich taste. It also helps to crisp up the pizza crust and adds a delightful crunch. This versatile cheese can elevate even the simplest pizza, making it a favourite among pizza enthusiasts.
- Garlic: Garlic is a versatile ingredient that adds a deep, aromatic flavour to any dish, and pizza is no exception. Whether you use fresh minced garlic, garlic powder, or roasted garlic cloves, this spice can significantly enhance the taste of your pizza. For a garlic lover’s dream, try adding roasted garlic to your tomato sauce or scattering thin slices over the pizza before baking. The rich, aromatic essence of garlic will permeate every bite, creating a truly unforgettable pizza experience.
Delicious Pizza Recipes to Try
Now that we've covered the essential herbs and spices, here are a few recipe ideas to inspire your next pizza night.
These recipes showcase how simple additions can transform your homemade pizza into a gourmet delight.
Classic Margherita
The Classic Margherita is a timeless favourite, celebrated for its simplicity and vibrant flavours.
The combination of fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomato sauce creates a harmonious balance that appeals to all pizza lovers. This pizza is light, refreshing, and utterly delicious.
- Ingredients: Pizza dough, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, salt.
- Instructions: Spread tomato sauce over the dough, add slices of fresh mozzarella, and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Spicy Pepperoni
The Spicy Pepperoni pizza is perfect for those who crave a bit of heat. The combination of pepperoni and crushed red pepper flakes delivers a fiery kick, while the grated parmesan and parsley add depth and freshness. This pizza is a bold and flavourful choice.
- Ingredients: Pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni slices, crushed red pepper flakes, grated parmesan, parsley.
- Instructions: Top the dough with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and grated parmesan. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Garlic and Herb Delight
The Garlic and Herb Delight is a flavour-packed pizza that garlic lovers will adore. The aromatic essence of garlic combined with the freshness of oregano and parsley creates a rich and satisfying taste experience. This pizza is both hearty and refreshing.
- Ingredients: Pizza dough, olive oil, minced garlic, mozzarella, oregano, parsley, parmesan.
- Instructions: Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic. Add mozzarella and sprinkle with oregano and parsley. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan.
Related: Pizza Party Ideas - How to Host the Best Pizza Night
Wrapping Up
Using the right herbs and spices can truly elevate your pizza to new flavour heights.
While making your own pizza at home is a fun and rewarding experience, sometimes it's best to leave it to the professionals. By incorporating these flavour-boosting herbs and spices, you can make every pizza night a gourmet adventure. So go ahead, experiment with these recommendations, and enjoy the delicious results.
At Best Pizza in Pittsburgh, we pride ourselves on using the finest herbs and spices to create pizzas that are not only delicious but unforgettable.
If you're looking to experience pizza perfection, get in touch with us at 412 685 8500 or email us at [email protected]. Our team is ready to serve you the best pizza in Pittsburgh, crafted with love and the finest ingredients.
Don't settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary – let us take your pizza experience to the next level!