White Clam & Arugula Pizza
Created by Kchurchill5 on May 17, 2016
- Servings: 3-4
- Prep Time: 5-10m
- Cook Time: 8-16m
- Recipe #23771
Ingredients
- 1 large whole wheat (10 to 12 ounce) pizza crust (pre-made pizza crust,or 2 small whole wheat flat bread or nann breads)
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt
- FOR TOPPINGS
- 2 cans (10 ounce cans) clams, drained (strain and reserve 2 tablespoons of the liquid)
- 1 large shallot, thin sliced
- 6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (thin sliced and broken up)
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Garnish
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups baby arugula
- 1/2 to 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How to Make
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Step 1: Note: First, I like to use a pre-made pizza crust (or a flat bread or naan type of bread). And, I like to cook my pizza either on the grill; or, in the oven on a pizza stone. So, if using a pizza stone; make sure you heat it up for at least 15-20 minutes in a 500 degree oven. You can also cook this right on the grates; or, even on a sheet pan too. I usually follow the package directions and temperatures for the crust.
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Step 2: If using a pizza stone; and it takes a LONG time to heat up properly - so, start that first. But, personally ... I will always choose the outside grill when possible.
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Step 3: Garlic Oil ... Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil to a small measuring cup; and, microwave 1 1/2 minutes on medium to medium low heat. Keep and eye on it. Then, let it cool.
How to Make
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Step 4: Clams ... Drain the clams, reserving 2 tablespoons of the clam juice. Then, I suggest you strain the reserved juice, just in case there are any shells in the liquid.
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Step 5: Pizza ... Brush half of the garlic oil over the pizza crust (including the edges) or flat breads; and season with salt. Then, add the reserved clam juice to the remaining garlic oil; and, set to the side.
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Step 6: Break up the mozzarella slices; and scatter over the crust. Add the shallots, 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, clams; and, finish with the remaining garlic oil/clam juice mix, and the remaining parmesan cheese. You can always add a bit more cheese if you like; but, I don't find it necessary. Note: I do like to use fresh mozzarella and fresh grated parmesan; it really makes a big difference.
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Step 7: Bake ... According to package directions. I prefer to bake mine on a pizza stone; if using the oven. It takes around 8-10 minutes until all the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown; in a 450 degree oven. But, as mentioned, I will always choose my outdoor grill first. Medium heat for 8-10 minutes; then, I transfer to indirect heat; just until everything is heated through, another 4-5 minutes.
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Step 8: Salad ... As the pizza bakes; toss the arugula with the lemon juice and olive oil; and, lightly season with salt and pepper. Top the warm pizza with the arugula salad.
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Step 9: Serve and ENJOY! ... Really easy to make; which makes it a great quick dinner. Serve with a fruit salad; glass of red or white wine - and, dinner. Note: I did mention fresh mozzarella and fresh parmesan ... I really things it makes a difference. I don't mind pre-shredded for some dishes; however, for this simple dish - the fresh really makes a big difference.