How to Make Asparagus Pizza. Yes, Asparagus Pizza.

If somebody says, "Hey, let's have pizza for dinner!", chances are pretty good that they didn't mean "Hey, let's MAKE a pizza for dinner." (unless they live here...), and even more unlikely, "Hey, let's make an asparagus pizza!". But after you find out how good this tastes and how easy it is to make, I know you will want one. Here are two similar asparagus pizzas. They look pretty cool don't they? Good to serve at a party as a second or third pizza option or when you just have friends over and want to look like you really know what you're doing.

Pre-made pizza crust, pencil asparagus, garlic, green onions, chives, mozzarella, olive oil

OR

Pre-made pizza crust, asparagus, garlic, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, pecorino cheese, olive oil

This is a white pizza with asparagus as the primary topping. White pizza typically has an olive oil, garlic, herb and cheese base instead of tomato sauce. We love tomatoes but enjoy white pizza too because it is so versatile, can have a stronger flavor punch and is a good way to change things up. It makes a great base for toppings like pancetta, prosciutto, anchovies, arugula, roasted peppers, sun dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, caramelized onions - not all at the same time - the fewer ingredients, the better. But you get the idea. 

Ingredients for the asparagus pizza:

Pre-made pizza crust (we like Boboli for ease, taste and look, BUT you can also make your own crust from scratch if you are feeling scratchy) - 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

3 cloves of garlic minced

Crushed red pepper flakes

1 bunch of pencil asparagus - the thinner the better

1 cup shredded mozzarella

2/3 cup ricotta cheese

1/3 cup grated pecorino cheese

Salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 450. Use a pizza stone if you have one.

Saute the garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil on medium heat for 3 minutes. 

Stir the garlic and pepper flakes along with the olive oil they were sauteed in into the ricotta. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

Spread the ricotta mixture over the pizza crust

Trim the thicker ends off the asparagus and arrange on top of the pizza.

Add the mozzarella and the pecorino and drizzle olive oil over the top.

Bake for 8 - 12 minutes or what time the crust package recommends.

Enjoy!