I developed this balsamic tomato and feta french bread pizza recipe for winter, store-bought tomatoes that are less flavorful.
Winter tomatoes that didn’t get to ripen on the vine just don’t have the same flavor, or texture as fresh summer tomatoes. A little soak in some balsamic adds sweetness and acidity to brighten those tomatoes right up!
My husband and I always visit the same Italian restaurant for Valentines day. I learned this technique of marinating the tomatoes from them, and we can’t get enough.
I made these pizzas on french bread instead of dough to make them super fast and simple. The crunchy texture of the baked french bread is also a fun way to switch things up on pizza night!
Variations to the Balsamic Tomato and Feta French Bread Pizza recipe:
- Try your favorite pizza dough recipe instead of the french bread if you prefer.
- I tried this recipe with blue cheese as well, and found the feta to be a better flavor. You might also try shaved Parmesan!
- Sometimes I reduce the leftover balsamic from the marinade and use it as a drizzle on the french breads. Totally worth the extra step if you have the time!
- Pan toasting the bread helps keep it crisp and not soggy. You can omit this step if you don’t mind a softer interior.
Balsamic Tomato and Feta French Bread Pizza
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
Winter tomatoes are less flavorful because they didn't get to ripen on the vine. A little soak in some balsamic adds sweetness and acidity to brighten those tomatoes right up! Bonus - these french bread pizzas take only 30 minutes!
Author: Alison's Allspice
Recipe type: Entree
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 slices or 2 large servings
Ingredients
- 1 large roma tomato
- 1 TBS balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp dried basil
- pinch each: salt and pepper
- 16 oz french bread (preferably whole wheat)
- ½ cup marinara
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 oz crumbled feta (about ½ cup)
Instructions
- Combine the tomato, balsamic, basil, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir to combine and let marinade for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Meanwhile. Cut your french bread in half the short way, and then a gain the long way (on both pieces) to end up with 4 slices of french bread.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over high heat. Place french breads cut side down on the hot griddle until golden brown. Repeat until all 4 french breads are toasted.
- Spread 2 TBS marinara over each toasted slice of french bread. Top each with ¼ cup mozzarella, and sprinkle of fresh garlic, and 2 TBS feta cheese.
- Using a slotted spoon to drain off the balsamic, spoon the tomatoes on the top of each pizza slice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese starts to brown.
Optional
- In a small skillet reduce the leftover balsamic marinade until thick and syrupy. Drizzle over pizza slices.
This post was shared at Fiesta Friday and the Weekend Potluck!
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