Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze
A sweet-savory pizza featuring fresh figs, peppery arugula, and a vibrant basil pesto base. This italian-inspired quick meals (vegetarian) ready in about 32 minutes blends ball (300g) pizza dough, packed fresh basil, toasted pine nuts into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 590 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 ball (300g) pizza dough
- 30g, packed fresh basil
- 15g, toasted pine nuts
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4, halved fresh figs
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Step 1: Blend 30g basil, 15g toasted pine nuts, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tbsp olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Set aside.
- Step 2: Roll dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Brush edges with 1 tbsp olive oil. Spread 3 tbsp basil pesto evenly over the dough.
- Step 3: Arrange 4 halved fresh figs on top, then bake at 220°C (425°F) for 10-12 minutes until crust is crisp. Drizzle with 1 tbsp balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze take to make?
Total time is about 32 minutes (20 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Fig and Arugula Pesto Pizza with Balsamic Glaze vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
My kids asked for seconds on this pizza—figs are a hit with the whole family!
- ★★★★★
Loved it! The figs and arugula made such a fresh combo.
- ★★★★☆
Elegant yet simple, great for impressing guests without stress.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.