The Potato Pizza elevates the humble potato to new gastronomic heights by placing it atop a golden pizza crust infused with aromatic rosemary and drizzled with the finest olive oil. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, showcasing how a few quality ingredients can create a truly exquisite meal. Imagine indulging in tender potato slices that melt in your mouth, crispy edges that add texture, and a fragrant herb aroma wafting through your kitchen. Popular in central and southern regions of Italy, this pizza can typically be found in rustic trattorias or trendy pizzerias, with prices ranging from €8 to €15 (approximately $10 to $17). For those following a low-carb diet, the keto Potato Pizza version provides a delicious alternative, ensuring you won’t miss out on this comforting dish.
Origin and Inspiration
Originating from the enchanting landscapes of Italy, the Potato Pizza is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of rustic Italian cooking. This dish thrives on the principle of using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, mirroring the philosophies of many Italian cuisines around the world. Traditional Italian wood-fired pizzas are known for their perfectly charred crusts, providing an ideal canvas for the delicate potato toppings.
The keto Potato Pizza adaptation embraces the spirit of the original while cleverly swapping out the traditional wheat flour crust for a cauliflower or almond flour base. This transformation retains the flavor and texture of a real pizza, allowing those on a ketogenic diet to delight in this Italian classic without the carb guilt. Imagine savoring the same flavor-filled experience without the heaviness — that’s the beauty of the keto adaptation!
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0g
Keto Version
Calories: 290 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (cauliflower or almond flour-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
-
Traditional Version:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C), ensuring it is hot enough for a perfectly crisp base.
- Keto Version:
Prepare the keto pizza crust by mixing the cauliflower or almond flour with eggs, cheese, and seasoning. Shape it into a circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pre-bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Sauté the Potatoes and Rosemary:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced potatoes, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped rosemary. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring occasionally. The divine aroma of warm rosemary and olive oil will fill your kitchen, creating a fragrant backdrop for this dish.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread a layer of mozzarella cheese on the prepped crust. Next, arrange the sautéed potato slices evenly on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with the remaining rosemary and a dash of sea salt, insisting the art of topping be a well-balanced distribution.
4. Bake the Pizza:
Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the crust has achieved a beautiful golden brown. The sight of the melty cheese paired with the roasted potatoes will make your mouth water!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pizza and let it cool slightly. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle extra rosemary if desired. Cut into slices and enjoy the satisfying crunch of the crust beneath the creamy, cheesy toppings.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light Italian salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the Potato Pizza beautifully.
- Keto Pairing: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water with lemon or a crisp cucumber salad for a light, invigorating side that won’t compromise your low-carb goals.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: Best enjoyed fresh, the Potato Pizza can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes for the best results.
- Keto Version: The keto pizza also keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Both versions can be frozen, ideally wrapped tightly, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until hot.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Oven: The oven is ideal for achieving that perfect crust, but consider using a cast iron skillet for a unique take that enhances the crispiness by distributing heat evenly.
- Air Fryer: For a more compact version, prepare individual Potato Pizzas in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes—get ready for a delightful crispy crust with less cooking time!
Conclusion
The Potato Pizza is a remarkable dish that showcases the elegance of Italian cooking through simplicity and flavor. Whether indulging in the traditional version or savoring the keto Potato Pizza, each bite offers a comforting embrace of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and fragrant rosemary. This pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can easily fit into any balanced diet, making it a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire. Embrace the creativity of this dish, and let it inspire culinary joy in your kitchen!