As I lifted the lid of my grill, a sweet, smoky aroma wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to sun-soaked evenings spent savoring artisan pizzas. My favorite creation? The Grilled Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza—a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer gatherings. This vibrant pizza, with its rustic thin crust and a delectable topping of creamy whipped goat cheese, sweet purple figs, and caramelized onions, is both an easy preparation and a vegetarian delight. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or aiming to impress friends at your next cookout, this recipe is your ticket to a gourmet experience right from your backyard. Ready to elevate your pizza game and delight your taste buds with a sweet-savory harmony? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why is this pizza a must-try?
Flavors that Wow: The balanced blend of creamy goat cheese and sweet figs creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.
Quick & Easy: With easy preparation and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for even the busiest home cooks.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to customize your pizza by adding your favorite herbs or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate it further!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser that sparks joy and conversation.
Gourmet Experience At Home: Transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that brings everyone together around the table.
Get ready to create memories and savor every bite!
Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful pizza!
For the Dough
- Rustic Pizza Dough – Use either store-bought or homemade for a crispy foundation.
For the Topping
- Goat Cheese (20 oz) – This adds a creamy, tangy layer; feel free to substitute with ricotta or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Enhances the dough’s flavor while cooking.
- Caramelized Onions (2 cups) – Provides a delightful sweetness; sautéed shallots can be a good swap.
- Purple Figs (14, sliced) – These offer a unique sweetness; if they’re out of season, consider fresh peaches or pears instead.
- Chives (1/2 cup, chopped) – Adds a subtle onion flavor; green onions work in a pinch, or omit if preferred.
- Purple Onion (1/2, thinly sliced, optional) – Brings crunch and sharpness.
- Sea Salt (1 pinch) – Enhances the overall taste; kosher salt is a suitable alternative.
- Fresh Herbs or Baby Arugula (1/2 cup, for garnish) – Brightens the dish; basil or thyme can be used interchangeably.
Get ready to indulge in a Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza that’s perfect for sharing!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preparing your rustic pizza dough according to your favorite recipe and allow it to proof for about 2 hours at room temperature. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and feels airy to the touch. This step is critical for achieving a crispy base for your delicious Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza.
Step 2: Make Whipped Goat Cheese
In a food processor, blend together 20 oz of goat cheese, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once done, fold in the chopped chives before covering and refrigerating the whipped goat cheese to allow the flavors to meld while your dough rises.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
While the dough is proofing, take a skillet and caramelize 2 cups of thinly sliced onions over low heat. Stir occasionally for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and sweetly fragrant. Keep an eye on them, as you want to achieve a beautifully rich color without burning. Set aside to cool slightly as they will top the pizza.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once your dough has risen, divide it into small balls, depending on your desired serving size. On a floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin pizza base—aim for about ¼ inch thick. This creates the perfect canvas for your Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza, ready to soak in all those wonderful flavors from the toppings.
Step 5: Grill the Pizza Bases
Preheat a cast iron griddle over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Grill each rolled-out pizza base for approximately 1 minute on each side, or until you see nice grill marks forming. This step adds a smoky flavor and an appealing texture, setting the stage for your sweet and savory toppings to shine on the Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza.
Step 6: Prepare for Broiling
Now, set your oven to broil and arrange the grilled pizza bases on a baking tray. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the whipped goat cheese over the top of each pizza, then add a generous layer of caramelized onions and arrange the sliced purple figs beautifully on top. This combination of toppings will provide an irresistible balance of flavors.
Step 7: Broil the Pizza
Place the tray under the broiler for about 1 minute, watching closely as the figs and goat cheese begin to caramelize and bubble slightly. This quick cooking time is essential to achieve that lovely, golden finish without overcooking the pizza. The result will be an aromatic Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once broiled to perfection, remove the pizzas from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or baby arugula for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add any remaining caramelized onions for extra flavor. Slice your glorious Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza and serve it warm, perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Fig and Goat Cheese Pizzas are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough, whipped goat cheese, and caramelized onions up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator once it has risen. The whipped goat cheese can also be blended and kept chilled, while the caramelized onions should be refrigerated in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the dough and grill the bases as instructed. Top with your prepared toppings and broil for just 1 minute for a fresh, gourmet taste, making this fig and goat cheese pizza just as delightful even when prepped ahead!
Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap goat cheese for your favorite vegan cheese alternative for a completely plant-based pizza.
Your guests won’t even notice the difference as the vegan cheese melts beautifully over the grilled figs. -
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a fiery contrast to the sweetness of the figs.
This spicy element can turn your Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza into a thrilling taste adventure! -
Nutty Bliss: Incorporate a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor.
The rich, earthy notes from the nuts complement the sweetness of the figs perfectly. -
Savory Meat Addition: Layer on slices of prosciutto or speck for a savory, umami-filled twist.
This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds an elegant touch to your dish. -
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a homemade balsamic reduction over the pizza just before serving for a luxurious finish.
The tangy sweetness of the balsamic lifts the flavors and adds a gourmet touch! -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with various herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, instead of chives for a distinct aromatic twist.
Fresh herbs can elevate the pizza to new flavor heights and provide a beautiful pop of color. -
Grilled Peach Variant: Switch out figs for ripe peaches for a summery, sweet alternative.
Grilled peaches add a delightful twist that pairs just as beautifully with goat cheese. -
Whole Wheat Crust: Choose whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
This healthier option retains all the classic flavors but offers a wholesome twist perfect for everyone!
Each of these variations promises to bring an exciting new dimension to your Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza. Embrace the fun of cooking and make it your own!
Storage Tips for Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unassembled pizza bases and toppings separately. The dough can last up to 3 months, while toppings are best enjoyed within 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Wrapping: If you’ve made extra pizza, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap before refrigerating or freezing to prevent freezer burn or drying out.
What to Serve with Grilled Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza
Imagine enjoying the sweet and savory delight of grilled fig and goat cheese pizza, perfectly paired with complementary dishes and drinks.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery salad balances the richness of the pizza, adding a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness, transforming each bite into a gourmet experience.
- Artisan Bread: Serve with crusty bread for a rustic feel; it’s perfect for sopping up any leftover toppings or olive oil.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies lend a smoky companion to the pizza while maintaining a delightful variety of textures.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio elevates your dining experience, complementing the fig and goat cheese beautifully.
- Fig Jam: Offer a side of fig jam on a charcuterie board for an extra layer of flavor, perfect for spreading on warm pizza slices.
- Prosciutto Slices: The salty richness of prosciutto adds depth and contrasting flavor, allowing all components to shine on your plate.
- Dark Chocolate: End the meal with a hint of indulgence—dark chocolate complements the fig’s sweetness while offering a decadent touch.
These thoughtfully curated pairings will create a memorable dining experience that highlights the charm of your grilled fig and goat cheese pizza.
Expert Tips for Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza
Hot Griddle Requirement: Always preheat your griddle adequately before grilling the dough to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the broiler—cooking for too long can burn the delicate toppings on your Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza.
Whipped Cheese Texture: For the best whipped goat cheese, blend until it’s silky smooth; a chunky texture won’t spread well on your pizza.
Flavor Balancing: To enhance the sweet-savory profile, consider drizzling honey over the pizza before serving—it’s a delightful surprise!
Dough Thickness: Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch for your pizza base. This allows for a crispy edge while providing support for the toppings.
Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to keep that wonderful crispiness intact.
Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza Recipe FAQs
What are the best figs to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for fresh, ripe purple figs that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. If fresh figs are out of season, you can use dried figs or substitute them with fresh peaches or pears, which will also provide a lovely sweetness.
How should I store leftover Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat and maintain that crispy crust, place it in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through but not overcooked.
Can I freeze the Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza?
Yes, you can! For optimal freshness, freeze unassembled pizza bases and toppings separately. The pizza dough can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the whipped goat cheese and caramelized onions can last about 2 months. When ready to prepare, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and grilling.
What can I do if the pizza dough isn’t rising properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, ensure that your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can hinder the rising process. Also, check the temperature of the room; ideal proofing conditions are warm and draft-free—around 75°F to 80°F. If it still doesn’t rise after 2 hours, you might need a new batch. You can try wrapping it in a damp towel and placing it in a turned-off oven with the light on for some warmth.
Are there any dietary considerations for this pizza?
Yes! This Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza is vegetarian, but if you are serving someone with dairy allergies, you might want to substitute goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or ricotta. Additionally, always make sure the dough is made without any allergens if someone has gluten sensitivity; you can opt for gluten-free pizza dough as a great alternative.
Can this recipe be scaled up for larger gatherings?
Very much so! This recipe is easily scalable; just multiply the ingredients based on how many pizzas you’d like to make. You can also prepare everything ahead of time—make the dough and toppings, then assemble and grill when your guests arrive for a fresh, hot pizza experience.
Irresistible Fig and Goat Cheese Pizza for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your rustic pizza dough according to your favorite recipe and allow it to proof for about 2 hours at room temperature.
- In a food processor, blend together 20 oz of goat cheese, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth and creamy.
- Caramelize 2 cups of thinly sliced onions over low heat for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Divide the risen dough into small balls and roll out each into a thin pizza base.
- Preheat a cast iron griddle over medium-high heat and grill each rolled-out pizza base for about 1 minute on each side.
- Set your oven to broil, arrange the grilled pizza bases on a tray, spread whipped goat cheese, top with caramelized onions, and arrange sliced figs.
- Broil the pizza for about 1 minute until the figs and goat cheese caramelize.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs or baby arugula, slice and serve warm.
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