Friday, December 7, 2007

Lavash pizza w/ blistered tomatoes, pesto and Italian cheese

So you're having a holiday shin-dig and need something quick and delicious for guests to nosh on, not to mention something to soak up the beer! Have no fear--The Healthy Irishman is here! (she made me do it). I'd love to be able to pass this idea off as my own but I'll no doubt be busted. My buddy, Trevor came up with this. We worked together in catering companies a few years back and now he's head honcho at his own company, deuceevents.com. The pizza is a great party idea--not only does it look good, it's simple, quick and people love it. Play around with the toppings to create your own signature version.

Recipe:
1 piece lavash (Trader Joe's)
2 baskets cherry tomatoes - washed
2 cups basil pesto - recipe below
1/2 cup 2% Italian cheese
1 tbsp. olive oil


Pre-heat oven 400 degrees
Brush the lavash with olive oil and par-bake for 5-6 mins. approx or until it begins to crisp. This can be done ahead of time and set aside until you're ready to make your pizzas. Drizzle some olive oil in pan and saute tomatoes on high heat until they begin to blister, 6 mins. approx. Season and set aside.
To make pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon- zested
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Blend basil, garlic, nuts and cheese in food processor for 20 secs. If you don't have one of these gadgets a blender works just fine, just use smaller quantities. With machine running, slowly add olive oil, season and taste. If making this ahead of time make be sure you cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from oxidizing, which turns it brown.
To assemble pizza, simply spread pesto generously and carefully on the lavash. Layer the blistered tomatoes on top and sprinkle the cheese over. Don't do this too far ahead as the lavash will get soggy. Put in the oven for 5 mins. approx or till the cheese melts.
To serve, cut into bite size pieces, top with fresh chopped basil.
How easy is that, even an Irishman can do this!

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