Sardine Pizza Recipe

Name: Sardine Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 lb prepared pizza dough; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon Greek seasoning; 1/4 cup pizza sauce; 8-9 slices fresh mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half; 10 sardines; 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1 egg; 3 leaves torn basil; 2 teaspoon lemon juice, to taste

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound prepared pizza dough
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Greek seasoning
1/4 cup pizza sauce
8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese, or more to taste
1/4 cup halved cherry tomatoes
10 sardines
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 large egg (optional)
3 leaves fresh basil, torn
2 teaspoons lemon juice, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat a gas grill with all burners on High for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the pizza dough into a disc.

Step 3: Reduce the flame on half of the grill burners to Low to create areas of direct and indirect heat.

Step 4: Carefully place the dough onto the grill over direct heat. Close the cover and let it grill until the bottom is just barely cooked and shows char marks, about 1 to 3 minutes.

Step 5: Use tongs to flip the pizza dough over, then move it to the indirect heat.

Step 6: Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with Greek seasoning.

Step 7: Place the mozzarella slices, halved cherry tomatoes, and sardines on top of the pizza. Evenly sprinkle dried oregano over the pizza.

Step 8: Crack the egg and place it in the center of the pizza.

Step 9: Grill the pizza until the cheese is melted and the egg white is no longer clear, about 3 minutes.

Step 10: Carefully remove the pizza from the grill.

Step 11: Sprinkle torn basil over the pizza and squeeze lemon juice on top.

Cooks Note

Pizza dough can be bought from the freezer section at Aldi or divided into two dough discs.
The egg is optional; if preferred, place the pizza under a broiler to set the egg.
For a zesty twist, you can add very thin slices of lemon (peel and all) to the pizza.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount per serving
Calories	334
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	34mg
Sodium	829mg
Total Carbohydrate	37g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	15g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	239mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	147mg

The History and Origins of Sardine Pizza

Sardine pizza has its roots deeply embedded in Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood has been a staple for centuries. While traditional Italian pizzas often feature ingredients like mozzarella, tomatoes, and cured meats, sardines were added as an affordable, nutrient-rich option for coastal communities. These small, oily fish were prized not only for their flavor but also for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Over time, sardine pizza became a symbol of resourcefulness, combining simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor and nutrition.

Regional Variations

Across Italy, sardine pizza can vary significantly depending on local preferences and available ingredients. In Sicily, for example, it is common to include anchovies, capers, and olives alongside sardines, reflecting the islands strong ties to fresh, local seafood. In coastal regions of Southern Italy, herbs like oregano, basil, and a drizzle of lemon juice are often added to balance the rich, savory taste of sardines. Northern Italian versions may be lighter, emphasizing thin crusts and milder cheeses, showcasing the regional diversity of Italian pizza traditions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike standard seafood pizzas that may include shrimp, calamari, or tuna, sardine pizza is distinguished by its bold, oily, and slightly salty flavor profile. Sardines are smaller and more intensely flavored than many other fish used on pizza, giving the dish a distinctive character. The addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice sets it apart from simpler anchovy pizzas, creating a balance of tanginess and umami that appeals to both traditionalists and modern palates.

Typical Serving Venues

Sardine pizza is traditionally enjoyed in casual settings, from coastal trattorias to home kitchens. In Italy, it is often served as part of a family meal, accompanied by a crisp salad or a glass of white wine. Modern pizzerias may offer it as a specialty item, highlighting local seafood sources. In international contexts, sardine pizza can be found in gourmet pizza restaurants that focus on artisanal toppings and Mediterranean-inspired menus.

Interesting Facts

Sardines have been consumed by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient Rome and Greece.
Grilling pizza over direct and indirect heat, as in the provided recipe, is a technique that enhances the smoky flavors of the sardines while keeping the crust crisp.
The combination of sardines, lemon, and fresh herbs mirrors traditional Mediterranean flavor pairings, emphasizing simplicity and freshness.
Despite their strong flavor, sardines are an environmentally sustainable seafood choice due to their abundance and fast reproductive cycles.
The egg in the center, though optional, adds richness and a creamy texture, making sardine pizza a versatile dish that bridges rustic and refined tastes.

FAQ about Sardine Pizza Recipe

Leftover Sardine Pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until the pizza is warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a grill or skillet to reheat it for a crispy crust.

Yes, you can freeze the Sardine Pizza. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which may take around 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness of the pizza.

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use dough from the freezer section, like the one suggested in the recipe. Just make sure to let the dough thaw before using it, if frozen.

You can customize the Sardine Pizza with additional toppings like olives, capers, anchovies, or roasted red peppers. If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or feta could be a good alternative to mozzarella. For extra flavor, try adding thin lemon slices, as mentioned in the cook's note, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can bake the Sardine Pizza in an oven. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. You can also use a broiler to set the egg if preferred.

Yes, the egg is optional. The pizza will still be delicious without it. If you prefer, you can replace the egg with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after baking for added richness.

This recipe contains dairy, gluten, and eggs, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy, gluten, or egg allergies. However, you can make substitutions to accommodate specific dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pizza dough. For a dairy-free version, replace the mozzarella with a non-dairy cheese alternative. The egg can be omitted entirely or replaced with a vegan egg substitute.

You can adjust the seasoning by adding different herbs and spices to the pizza. For a spicier version, try sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes over the pizza before grilling. For a more Mediterranean flavor, you could add a sprinkle of za'atar or fresh rosemary.