Prepare to elevate your taste buds with the ultimate culinary celebration of National Pinot Grigio Day! This mouthwatering Pesto Mozzarella Asparagus Flatbread is about to become your new obsession - a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and fresh flavors that will transport you straight to the Italian countryside. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet experience, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to create.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 flatbread
- 1 cup pesto
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim the tough woody ends by snapping them off or cutting approximately 1-2 inches from the bottom.
- Slice the asparagus spears diagonally into 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Lightly brush the flatbread with olive oil to help create a crisp base and enhance flavor.
- Spread the fresh pesto evenly across the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges for a rustic presentation.
- Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella strategically over the pesto, ensuring even coverage.
- Distribute the prepared asparagus pieces across the flatbread, nestling them between the mozzarella slices.
- Season the flatbread with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Place the prepared flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the flatbread edges are golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Slice into quarters and serve immediately while hot and the cheese is still melty.
Tips
- For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the mozzarella and pesto.
- Make sure to trim the asparagus properly to avoid tough, woody ends.
- Preheat your oven completely before baking to ensure a crispy flatbread base.
- Don't overload the flatbread - balance is key to achieving the perfect texture.
- Let the flatbread rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil after baking.
- If you're short on time, store-bought pesto and pre-trimmed asparagus can be great time-savers.
- Experiment with different types of mozzarella, such as buffalo mozzarella, for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
