What Goes Well With Anchovies On Pizza?

Do you love the salty, umami flavor of anchovies on your pizza, but find yourself wondering what other toppings would complement this briny fish? Look no further! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of delicious pairings to take your anchovy pizza to the next level.

First up, try adding some sliced black olives and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist. The sweet and smoky flavors of the peppers balance out the saltiness of the anchovies, while the briny olives add another layer of complexity. Or, for a spicy kick, top your pizza with jalapenos and red onions. The heat and crunch of the jalapenos pairs perfectly with the richness of the anchovies, while the sweetness of the onions helps to balance out the flavors. So go ahead, experiment with these toppings and discover the perfect pairing for your next anchovy pizza!

What Goes Well with Anchovies on Pizza?

Are you a fan of anchovies on your pizza? This salty, fishy topping is often a love-it-or-hate-it addition to any pie. But if you’re one of the many who enjoy the unique flavor of anchovies, you may be wondering what other toppings or ingredients pair well with them on your pizza. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options to complement anchovies and create a delicious pizza experience.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a classic pizza topping that pairs excellently with anchovies. The sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes mellow out the saltiness of the anchovies, creating a perfectly balanced bite. For a traditional Margherita-style pizza, layer sliced tomatoes over a bed of tomato sauce, then top with anchovies and fresh basil. Alternatively, try a more modern take on the classic combo by adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes to your anchovy pizza.

2. Olives

Another salty ingredient that pairs well with anchovies is olives. Both ingredients are commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine, and they complement each other perfectly on a pizza. Choose from a variety of olive types, including green, black, Kalamata, or Castelvetrano, and either slice them or leave them whole. For a little extra kick, try adding some spicy Calabrian chili peppers to your olive and anchovy pizza.

3. Capers

Capers are another classic ingredient that pair well with anchovies on pizza. These tiny, pickled buds add a tangy, briny flavor to any dish, and they’re especially delicious on pizza. Try sprinkling capers over your anchovy pizza before baking, or mix them into your tomato sauce for added depth of flavor.

4. Onions

Caramelized onions are a great addition to any pizza, but they’re especially delicious when paired with anchovies. The sweetness of the onions balances out the saltiness of the anchovies, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. For a classic French twist, try adding some thinly sliced red onions and a sprinkle of thyme to your anchovy pizza.

5. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a versatile pizza topping that work well with many different ingredients, including anchovies. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs well with the saltiness of the anchovies, and their texture adds a satisfying chewiness to the pizza. Try sautéing some mushrooms with garlic and thyme and layering them over your anchovy pizza before baking.

6. Arugula

If you’re looking for a fresh, peppery kick to your anchovy pizza, try adding some arugula. This leafy green adds a bright, tangy flavor and a fresh crunch to your pizza. For the best results, add the arugula after baking the pizza, so it doesn’t wilt in the oven.

7. Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a tangy and salty cheese that pairs well with anchovies. Its crumbly texture adds a nice contrast to the softness of the anchovies, and its sharp flavor adds a punch of tanginess to the pizza. Try crumbling some feta cheese over your anchovy pizza before baking, or mix it into your tomato sauce for added creaminess.

8. Lemon

For a bright, citrusy twist on your anchovy pizza, try adding some fresh lemon zest or juice. The acidity of the lemon helps cut through the saltiness of the anchovies, creating a refreshing and light flavor profile. Alternatively, try adding some preserved lemon slices to your anchovy pizza for a more intense lemon flavor.

9. Bacon

For a meaty twist on your anchovy pizza, try adding some crispy bacon. The smokiness of the bacon pairs well with the saltiness of the anchovies, and its crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to the pizza. Try crumbling some bacon over your anchovy pizza before baking, or layering it over a bed of tomato sauce.

10. Jalapeños

If you’re looking for a spicy kick to your anchovy pizza, try adding some sliced jalapeños. The heat of the jalapeños pairs well with the saltiness of the anchovies, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. For a more intense heat, try adding some pickled jalapeños or spicy Calabrian chili peppers to your pizza.

In conclusion, anchovies are a unique and delicious pizza topping that can be paired with a variety of other ingredients to create a satisfying and balanced flavor profile. Whether you prefer classic combinations like tomatoes and olives, or more unusual options like feta cheese and lemon, there are endless possibilities for creating the perfect anchovy pizza. So next time you’re in the mood for some salty, fishy goodness, try experimenting with some of these delicious toppings and see what works best for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some toppings that go well with anchovies on pizza?

Anchovies are known for their salty and fishy taste, which can be a challenge to pair with other toppings on pizza. However, there are some toppings that complement anchovies quite well. One of the most popular options is adding some onions to the pizza. The sweetness of the onions can balance out the saltiness of the anchovies, creating a delicious flavor profile. Another great option is adding some capers to the pizza. Capers have a similar salty taste as anchovies, but they also have a slight bitterness that can help to cut through the richness of the fish.

When it comes to cheese, many people prefer to keep it simple with just a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella. However, some people also like to add some feta cheese to the pizza. Feta cheese has a tangy and salty taste, which can complement the anchovies quite well. Other toppings that can work well with anchovies include tomatoes, olives, and roasted garlic.

How can I reduce the saltiness of anchovies on pizza?

While many people enjoy the salty taste of anchovies, it can be overpowering for some. If you want to reduce the saltiness of your anchovies on pizza, there are a few things you can try. First, you can soak the anchovies in water for about 15 minutes before using them on the pizza. This can help to remove some of the excess salt. Another option is to rinse the anchovies under running water for a few seconds before using them on the pizza.

Alternatively, you can balance out the saltiness of the anchovies by adding some sweet or acidic ingredients to the pizza. For example, you can add some caramelized onions or roasted red peppers to the pizza to help balance out the saltiness. You can also add some fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the pizza before serving to help cut through the saltiness of the anchovies.

What’s The Deal With Anchovies On Pizza?

In conclusion, the debate over what goes well with anchovies on pizza may never truly be settled. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering potential toppings.

Firstly, consider the balance of flavors. Anchovies are known for their strong, salty taste, so it’s important to pair them with ingredients that can hold their own. Some popular options include olives, capers, and spicy peppers.

Secondly, think about texture. While anchovies can add a satisfying crunch to a pizza, they can also be a bit overwhelming on their own. Consider adding toppings like mushrooms, onions, or even pineapple to add some variety in texture.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! The beauty of pizza is that it can be customized to suit any taste, so feel free to try out different combinations until you find the perfect match for your anchovy pizza. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite topping!