The aroma of salty sea air mingled with sizzling dough and rich toppings takes me back to the heart of Marseille. I can almost hear the lively chatter of locals enjoying their meals by the waterfront as I whip up this Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style) in my own kitchen. This dish isn’t just a pizza; it’s a flavorful journey, showcasing the simple yet satisfying combination of fresh anchovies and creamy cheeses. The best part? You can easily customize your pizza for everyone’s cravings—whether you dive into the briny goodness or prefer a cheesy slice. Preparing this Mediterranean delight is quick and rewarding, making it a fantastic option for any weeknight dinner. Curious how to achieve that perfect crisp crust and meld those vibrant flavors? Let’s dig right into this recipe!
Why make Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style)?
Authentic Flavors: Experience the taste of the Mediterranean with every bite of this savory pizza, transporting you straight to the vibrant streets of Marseille.
Easy Customization: Whether you crave the briny bite of anchovies or a gooey cheese fix, this recipe lets you cater to all preferences effortlessly.
Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can make this incredible pizza in no time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your friends and family with a unique dish that sparks conversation and curiosity at your dinner table.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to mix and match with your favorite ingredients—try pairing with options like grilled vegetables or even those delicious Tortilla Pizza Rolls for something fun!
Anchovy Pizza Ingredients
• For an unforgettable homemade experience, gather these ingredients to create your Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style).
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – Use homemade or store-bought dough for a quick start; pre-baked crusts are also a time-saver.
For the Sauce
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This adds richness and helps achieve a perfectly browned crust.
- Pizza Sauce – Provides essential moisture and balances the savory flavors.
For the Toppings
- Anchovies in Olive Oil – These provide a delightful umami kick and can be substituted with other seafood if you prefer.
- Dried Oregano – Adds aromatic herbal notes that pair beautifully with the anchovies.
- Olives (Nicoise or similar) – Enhances saltiness; using pitted olives ensures ease while eating.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Creamy and rich; use half for a classic half-and-half pizza.
- Low Moisture Mozzarella or Swiss – For extra cheesiness and texture, use accordingly in the customizable sections.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Perfect for those who like to spice things up and add a kick to their slice!
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes, added right after baking for a pop of flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
If you’re using homemade pizza dough, start by mixing your dough ingredients, then let the dough rise in a warm area for about 20 minutes until it doubles in size. If you prefer the convenience of store-bought or pre-baked crust, you can skip this step and get ready to create your anchovy pizza!
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. This high temperature will help the dough crisp up beautifully while melting the cheese. Once the oven is ready, ensure all your toppings are prepared and within reach for a smooth assembly process.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into your desired shape—whether round or rectangular—aiming for a thickness of about ¼ inch for a nice chew. Place the shaped dough carefully on a pizza stone or baking sheet, ensuring it’s well-centered and ready for toppings.
Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil
Lightly brush the crust with extra virgin olive oil using a pastry brush to enhance flavor and aid in browning. This will give your anchovy pizza a lovely sheen and support that crispy texture we’re all after. You want to see a glossy layer forming.
Step 5: Add the Pizza Sauce
Spread your pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges for a crust that puffs up nicely in the oven. The sauce should cover the surface adequately without making it soggy. Visualize a perfect even layer that will mix beautifully with all your toppings.
Step 6: Top with Anchovies and Cheese
On one half of the pizza, evenly distribute the savory anchovies along with pitted olives for a delightful Mediterranean flavor. On the other half, sprinkle fresh mozzarella and your choice of additional cheeses, ensuring that the toppings are well-balanced. This step is where the anchovy pizza really comes to life!
Step 7: Season and Sprinkle
Sprinkle dried oregano generously over the top of the pizza to bring out a lovely aroma and flavor that complements the anchovies beautifully. If you enjoy a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes now for an extra layer of heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
Step 8: Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer your pizza to the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust turns golden and the cheese bubbles enticingly. You’ll know it’s done when the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to dinner!
Step 9: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the anchovy pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This short wait allows the cheese to set just enough. Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top to add a burst of freshness and bright color, making your pizza truly irresistible.
Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style) Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe to suit your taste, and bring extra joy to your dining table!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the mozzarella for a nut-based cheese to keep it creamy without dairy. The flavors still shine bright!
Try using cashew cheese for its smooth texture, or even a homemade almond cheese, to keep it both delightful and dairy-free. -
Smoky Flavor: Replace anchovies with smoked salmon for a delicious twist. This offers a unique flavor while keeping it seafood-inspired.
Pair it with capers and dill for a profile reminiscent of a classic bagel, but in pizza form! -
Veggie Delight: Use grilled vegetables instead of anchovies for a lighter, vegetarian option that’s packed with flavor.
Zucchini, bell peppers, and artichokes work wonderfully together to give that Mediterranean vibe! -
Feta Fling: For a tangier taste, throw in some feta cheese instead of regular mozzarella. The saltiness complements the anchovies beautifully.
Feta crumbles also add an enticing rustic touch to the pizza, making each bite a flavorful adventure! -
Hearty Addition: Load up with cooked prosciutto or Italian sausage for a meaty variation that will satisfy heartier appetites.
Pairing this with the anchovies creates a wonderful contrast between savory and salty, elevating the dish! -
Spice It Up: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil before baking for a fiery kick.
This adjustment transforms your pizza into a spice lover’s dream, enhancing all those delightful flavors. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of dried oregano for a fragrant twist.
Herbs can bring a beautiful freshness to each bite and elevate the pizza with new intriguing notes. -
Seafood Medley: Combine the anchovies with shrimp or calamari for a delightful seafood mélange that jazzes up the classic flavor.
These additions create a robust taste profile that truly encapsulates the Mediterranean spirit.
For a broader pizza experience, you can explore variations like the delicious Fig Jam Pizza or cook up some tasty Tortilla Pizza Rolls for a fun appetizer option!
How to Store and Freeze Anchovy Pizza
Fridge: Store leftover anchovy pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while also allowing the flavors to meld.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pieces individually wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps restore the crispness of the crust.
Room Temperature: If you have any pizza left out during meal time, consume within 2 hours to ensure it’s safe and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pizza dough and pizza sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll out the dough and store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Meanwhile, your sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container. If you’re using anchovies and fresh ingredients, prep and chop those up to 3 days before you’re ready to bake. To maintain quality, ensure everything is well-sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, assemble the toppings on the prepared dough, and bake for a delightful, quick dinner that tastes just as delicious as fresh!
Expert Tips for Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style)
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Perfect Dough Thickness: Aim for a ¼ inch thickness; too thick will lead to undercooked centers, while too thin may burn quickly.
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Essential Preheating: Always preheat your oven sufficiently; this helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all crave for the best Anchovy Pizza.
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Balanced Toppings: Avoid overcrowding your pizza with too many toppings to ensure even baking and that each bite is harmoniously flavored.
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Skip the Sog: Let your pizza sauce drain slightly before spreading to prevent a soggy crust, allowing your anchovy pizza to remain crisp.
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Basil Freshness: Always add fresh basil after baking for the brightest flavor and visual appeal—it makes all the difference!
What to Serve with Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style)
Delight your senses and create a complete meal experience with these complementary sides and beverages.
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Light Arugula Salad: The peppery flavors of arugula dress up a simple salad, balanced with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for brightness.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Flaky and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for scooping up any extra sauce, adding a comforting element to your meal.
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Mediterranean Couscous: This warm, fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables creates a great texture contrast, harmonizing beautifully with the savory pizza.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, offering refreshing notes that cut through the richness of the pizza.
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Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and garlic provide vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch.
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Classic Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert that complements the savory pizza, adding a touch of elegance.
Anchovy Pizza (Marseille Style) Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right anchovies?
Absolutely! When selecting anchovies, look for those packed in olive oil, as they tend to be firmer and have a richer flavor. Choose options that appear shiny and without dark spots all over, which can indicate spoilage. If you’re not fond of anchovies, consider substituting with smoked salmon or grilled vegetables for a milder taste.
How should I store leftover Anchovy Pizza?
Leftover anchovy pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld without compromising the integrity of the crust. If you prefer a quick bite on the go, enjoy it cold or reheat in the oven for a crispier texture.
Can I freeze Anchovy Pizza?
Yes, you can! To freeze anchovy pizza, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the pizza fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for that perfect warm, crispy bite.
What if my pizza crust turns out soggy?
No worries! If your anchovy pizza crust turns soggy, there are a few steps to prevent this in the future. Ensure your pizza sauce is not too watery; letting it drain a bit before spreading can help. Also, avoid overloading with toppings and make sure to pre-bake the crust slightly before adding sauce and toppings, which allows for better crisping in the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This anchovy pizza recipe can be adjusted for various dietary needs. If you’re serving it to someone with a seafood allergy, simply omit the anchovies and enjoy a delightful cheese-only variant. Additionally, for gluten-free diets, you can use gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust as a tasty substitute. Always consider checking the labels on any store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.
Savory Anchovy Pizza Marseille Style: A Bite of France
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: If using homemade dough, mix ingredients and let rise for 20 minutes. Skip this step for store-bought crust.
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 475°F (245°C) for a golden-brown crust.
- Shape the Dough: Roll out dough to ¼ inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush crust with olive oil for flavor and sheen.
- Add the Pizza Sauce: Spread sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border.
- Top with Anchovies and Cheese: Distribute anchovies on one half and mozzarella on the other.
- Season and Sprinkle: Add oregano and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and Garnish: Let cool, then sprinkle fresh basil before serving.
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