**How About Pizza This Evening?**

You can’t go wrong with a traditional pesto pizza. This straightforward vegetarian pizza recipe will certainly please a crowd. It presents an enticing mix of fresh, vibrant flavors from the basil pesto and tomatoes, generous amounts of cheesy mozzarella, and a crust that bubbles with a delightful chew.

This quick pesto pizza recipe comes together in no time with your food processor’s assistance. You can blend the dough and pesto in about 15 minutes—just clean the processor in between preparing the two elements. If you’re searching for an incredibly easy weeknight dinner that’s superior to take-out, opt for pre-made dough and pesto!

### Pesto Pizza Ingredients & Topping Alternatives

Here’s what you’ll need to create this pizza:

#### Pizza Dough

As always, I began with my preferred [Whole Wheat Pizza Dough Recipe](https://cookieandkate.com/videos/whole-wheat-pizza-dough-recipe/), which is a cinch to prepare. I suggest using white whole wheat flour, now known as [Golden Whole Wheat](https://www.target.com/p/king-arthur-flour-unbleached-white-whole-wheat-flour-5lbs/-/A-14776414?TCID=OGS&AFID=google&CPNG=Bakery%2BDeli&adgroup=261-6&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19859758222&gbraid=0AAAAAD-5dfZ5KiSyTEvtLfwaFsFSfd3cA&gclid=Cj0KCQjwh5vFBhCyARIsAHBx2wwyysZwTp91cDZtsDI0mzqNpPgGHIpK93QKoIVB51EsXFKrOCOwSVYaAqVrEALw_wcB) by King Arthur, ensuring the whole wheat taste doesn’t overshadow the vibrant pesto. The recipe also works well with all-purpose flour.

**Switch it up:** Use any favorite pizza dough recipe that yields around one pound of dough. Store-bought pizza dough is fine—just adhere to the package’s instructions for letting it rise at room temperature, if needed.

#### Pesto

This recipe contains directions for crafting [basil pesto](https://cookieandkate.com/how-to-make-basil-pesto/) from scratch. It requires fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.

**Switch it up:** You can replace pine nuts with other nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pepitas. Alternatively, [arugula](https://cookieandkate.com/arugula-pesto/) can be used instead of basil, which is typically more budget-friendly and widely available throughout the year.

#### Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is ideal for pesto pizza. I adored the results with tiny fresh mozzarella balls, known as ciliegene, perfectly sized to scatter across your pizzas. You may also use larger mozzarella balls, torn into one-inch pieces. The key to achieving excellent pizzas with fresh, water-packed mozzarella balls is to gently pat the cheese dry before layering it on your pizza to prevent excess moisture.

**Switch it up:** You could also opt for grated part-skim mozzarella for tasty results. I slightly favored the texture of fresh mozzarella and enjoyed seeing the vibrant green pesto shine through.

#### Toppings

Tomatoes are the traditional choice. I recommend cherry tomatoes, which aren’t overly watery and are generally more flavorful year-round. They bake best on pizzas when halved lengthwise, which aids in even distribution across the pizzas and provides sufficient surface area to roast off any excess juice.

**Switch it up:** Feel free to skip the tomatoes entirely or substitute with other thinly sliced vegetables like bell pepper, marinated artichoke, olives, mushrooms, or zucchini or yellow squash ([cut like this](https://cookieandkate.com/arugula-almond-pesto-pizza/)). Well-drained, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes would add additional flavor.

### What to Serve Alongside Pesto Pizza

If you’re centering your meal around pesto pizza as the main dish, you’re sure to please. Pesto pizza pairs well with numerous other fresh, herbed dishes. Here are my top recommendations categorized for your convenience.

### More Recipes Featuring Pesto

[Pesto](https://cookieandkate.com/how-to-make-basil-pesto/) is among my favorite sauces! Here are a few additional top [recipes with pesto](https://cookieandkate.com/tag/pesto/) on Cookie and Kate:

**Please share how your pesto pizza turns out in the comments.** I enjoy hearing from you.

### Pesto Pizza

This traditional pesto pizza recipe features basil pesto, mozzarella, and tomato! It’s simple to create from scratch. Pre-made components work effectively, too. Recipe yields two medium pizzas.

#### Dough and Toppings

####

These mashed potatoes with horseradish are rich and spicy! They make the perfect zesty accompaniment for steak, prime rib, or festive meals.

A few years back during Friendsgiving, a friend brought mashed potatoes and had everyone try to figure out the secret ingredient. Each mouthful was delectably savory, smooth, indulgent, and zesty, yet none of us could identify the secret. It turned out to be horseradish!

I swiftly put together this horseradish mashed potatoes recipe that impresses everyone (really!). The prepared horseradish contributes a tangy and zesty punch to each mouthful of creamy potatoes, making them utterly tempting. This side dish is ideal for chicken, fish, or during the holidays.

Ingredients for the Ideal Mash

Here are some key ingredients you’ll need for this horseradish potato recipe:

– Potatoes: I prefer a combination of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds have a creamy richness, while Russets are airy.
– Prepared Horseradish: This is the highlight! Be sure to purchase “prepared horseradish” in a jar, not “horseradish sauce” (which is creamy) or the raw root.
– Salted Butter: I use salted butter for potatoes to ensure they are thoroughly seasoned from the inside out.
– Sour Cream: This is a luxury ingredient for me, but I believe it’s essential for the perfect potatoes. You could replace it with Greek yogurt if you wish!
– Milk: This aids in achieving the ideal texture.
– Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides savory richness.

Ingredient Spotlight: Prepared Horseradish

Be cautious while shopping: you need prepared horseradish, which is a condiment made from grated horseradish, vinegar, and salt. It is typically located in the refrigerated dairy or condiment aisle. Steer clear of the raw root found in the produce section for this specific recipe, as the jarred version provides a consistent acidity and heat level that integrates more smoothly into the mash.

How to Prepare Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

These horseradish mashed potatoes are perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas and pair well with chicken, seafood, or vegetarian meals. The recipe offers a twist on our classic best mashed potatoes, which are rich, creamy, and irresistibly good. Here are some tips for the process:

1. Boil the potatoes properly

Wash and chop your potatoes into even 1-inch pieces. I usually peel the Russets but leave some skin on the Yukon Golds for added texture, though you can peel them all if you prefer. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until fork-tender.

– Pro Tip: Starting the potatoes in cold water ensures they cook evenly; otherwise, the outer part becomes mushy before the insides are tender.

2. Steam dry

Once drained, return the potatoes to the hot pot (off the heat) for a minute or two. This enables excess moisture to evaporate for the ideal fluffy texture.

3. Add the dairy

While the potatoes are steaming, sauté the minced garlic in the butter directly in the same pot. Then, incorporate the milk to warm it. Avoid adding cold milk to hot potatoes; warming it keeps everything at the proper temperature and texture.

4. Mash and season

Pour the garlic-butter-milk mixture over the potatoes. Mash them using a standard potato masher. Finally, mix in the sour cream and prepared horseradish. Tip: Use 2 tablespoons of horseradish for a milder flavor, or 4 tablespoons for a stronger kick.

Serving Suggestions

These horseradish mashed potatoes pair well with many dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:

Storage and Reheating

These mashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a saucepan over low heat. You may need to add a dash of milk or a pat of butter to revive the creamy texture as they warm.

I do not recommend freezing mashed potatoes as the texture may become grainy.

Dietary Notes

As written, this horseradish mashed potatoes recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free.

For a vegan and plant-based option, use vegan butter, dairy-free milk (I prefer oat milk), and omit the sour cream, adding more milk until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, refer to my vegan mashed potatoes recipe and mix in horseradish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute creamy horseradish sauce instead? I wouldn’t recommend it. Creamy horseradish sauce generally includes mayonnaise and other fillers that can change the flavor profile. Stay with the grated “prepared” horseradish in vinegar.

How do I ensure my potatoes aren’t gluey?

Alex & Sonja: The Culinary Team Behind A Couple Cooks

Introducing Alex and Sonja Overhiser, the energetic couple who have transformed their love for cooking into a flourishing online community. As the creators of two celebrated cookbooks and the founders of the well-known site A Couple Cooks, Alex and Sonja have been motivating home chefs since 2010. Their adventure started with a straightforward goal: to provide simple, seasonal recipes that infuse joy into the kitchen.

Over time, A Couple Cooks has evolved into a thorough resource for anyone aiming to elevate their culinary expertise. The site features thousands of unique recipes, all crafted with dedication and imagination. From swift weeknight meals to intricate weekend celebrations, Alex and Sonja explore a vast array of dishes that cater to varied tastes and dietary needs.

Along with recipes, the couple shares essential cooking advice and meal planning suggestions, assisting readers in optimizing their kitchen workflows and making the best use of seasonal produce. Their content is not only educational but also visually stunning, with all photography captured by Alex and Sonja themselves. This personal touch extends to their recipe testing phase, which includes their own family, involving their children to guarantee each dish is both delectable and family-friendly.

Apart from their website, Alex and Sonja have written two cookbooks, further solidifying their reputation as credible voices in the culinary realm. Their books explore their cooking philosophy more deeply, giving readers a tangible way to integrate the Overhisers’ culinary insights into their own kitchens.

As dedicated parents and a real-life couple who enjoy cooking together, Alex and Sonja personify the belief that cooking can be a delightful, shared journey. Their narrative serves as a reminder of the ability of food to unite people, and their efforts continue to motivate countless individuals to appreciate the craft of cooking.

### Creamy, Crunchy Stuffed Celery: A Nostalgic Classic

Revive a nostalgic classic with this creamy, crunchy stuffed celery. Fresh celery is loaded with a savory cheddar filling that incorporates just the right amount of Worcestershire and pimentos, ensuring every bite is bold and tasty.

#### Why Prepare It
This rapid, no-cook finger food is celebratory and suitable for making in advance. It’s one of those straightforward bites that everyone reaches for first.

#### Flavor Profile
A creamy, zesty cheddar filling with a dash of Worcestershire and sweet pimentos provides each bite with deep, savory flavor and vibrant color.

#### Method
Whip the cream cheese until airy and fluffy for a smooth integration with the cheddar. Next, add in some additional ingredients to enhance the flavor of these cream cheese celery sticks to new heights.

#### Serving Ideas
Present on an appetizer tray next to fresh vegetables, pinwheels, ranch dip, and other small snacks.

—

### Ingredient Highlights and Quick Substitutions

– **Celery:** Select sturdy, crisp stalks free of blemishes for optimal crunch. Ensure they are thoroughly dried for the filling to adhere.
– **Cream Cheese:** Opt for full-fat cream cheese to achieve the most luscious texture. Soften it before blending for a silkier filling.
– **Worcestershire:** Contributes savory richness and balances the cheese. If unavailable, soy sauce is a suitable alternative.
– **Cheddar Cheese:** Freshly grated sharp cheddar mixes more seamlessly, but pre-shredded is acceptable.
– **Pimentos or Roasted Peppers:** These lend sweetness, color, and a nostalgic flair. While optional, they are strongly advised for enhanced flavor and appearance.
– **Variations:** Think about incorporating bacon bits, green olives, or chives for added zest. For a lighter alternative, blend in some Neufchâtel cheese or a bit of Greek yogurt.

—

### Steps to Create Stuffed Celery

1. Whip the softened cream cheese.
2. Incorporate the other filling components.
3. Fill the celery sticks with the mixture and refrigerate until ready to serve.

#### Suggestions
– Blend the cream cheese using a hand mixer until airy for a lighter, smoother spread.
– For a neat presentation, use a pastry or zip-top bag to pipe the filling.
– If the celery wobbles on the plate, utilize a bit of the cream cheese mixture to secure them.
– Retain the leaves from the celery stalks to enhance the garnish of your serving plate.

—

### Preservation and Leftovers
If not relishing these immediately, store them in the refrigerator. To conserve time, prepare the filling two days in advance and then fill the celery shortly before serving (or up to one day in advance). Freezing is not advised as the filling may separate.

—

### Timeless Party Delights
Did you savor this Stuffed Celery? Share your thoughts and rating below.

—

### Recipe Summary
– **Servings:** 30 pieces
– **Prep Duration:** 10 minutes
– **Total Duration:** 10 minutes

#### Directions
1. In a medium bowl, blend the cream cheese with a hand mixer until fluffy.
2. Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and salt, and mix until unified.
3. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pimentos.
4. Fill the celery segments with the mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
5. Chill until it’s time to serve.

#### Additional Notes
– For a festive flair, sprinkle with paprika or freshly chopped herbs, like parsley.
– Prepare within 24 hours of serving.
– Rinse and dry the celery thoroughly; otherwise, the cream cheese filling may not adhere.
– Store leftover snacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. These do not freeze effectively.

—

### Nutritional Details (per piece)
– **Calories:** 19
– **Carbohydrates:** 1g
– **Protein:** 1g
– **Fat:** 1g
– **Sodium:** 79mg
– **Cholesterol:** 4mg
– **Fiber:** 0.3g

—

This creamy, crunchy stuffed celery is guaranteed to be a success at your upcoming event, adding a nostalgic element to your appetizer selection. Enjoy!

### Receive Tasty New Recipes Every Day

In today’s busy environment, finding time to prepare meals can be tough. However, with the appropriate resources, you can effortlessly uncover fresh and thrilling recipes that match your lifestyle. Joining a daily recipe service can revolutionize your cooking habits, offering you innovative ideas and motivation right in your inbox.

#### Why Sign Up for Daily Recipes?

1. **Diversity and Motivation**: Daily recipes introduce you to an extensive array of cuisines and cooking methods. Whether you seek speedy weeknight meals, nutritious options, or decadent desserts, a daily recipe subscription can make your meals more enticing.

2. **Time Efficiency**: With a focused collection of recipes sent to you, you reduce the time spent on meal planning and grocery shopping. Numerous services also include shopping lists, simplifying the gathering of necessary ingredients.

3. **Skill Enhancement**: Experimenting with new recipes can assist you in honing your cooking abilities. You’ll pick up new methods, learn about unfamiliar ingredients, and boost your confidence in the kitchen.

4. **Nourishing Meals**: Numerous recipe services emphasize wholesome, balanced dishes. By subscribing, you can obtain healthy recipes that align with your dietary preferences and aspirations.

5. **Community Involvement**: Several recipe platforms cultivate a community of food enthusiasts. You can showcase your culinary masterpieces, share advice, and connect with others who have a mutual love for cooking.

#### Steps to Subscribe

Subscribing to a daily recipe service is usually quite simple. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. **Go to the Subscription Page**: Head to the website providing the recipe subscription. Search for a subscription form, typically located in the footer or a specific section.

2. **Input Your Email**: Fill in your email address in the designated area. This will be where you receive your daily recipes.

3. **Consent to Terms**: Many services will ask you to agree to their terms, including a GDPR compliance if you’re located in the EU. This guarantees your information is managed properly.

4. **Send Your Information**: Once you’ve completed the form, click the submit button. You might receive a confirmation email to validate your subscription.

5. **Follow on Social Media**: Connect with the service on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for extra recipes, cooking advice, and community engagement.

#### Cancelling Your Subscription

If you discover that the service no longer suits your needs, most platforms enable you to unsubscribe effortlessly. Look for an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of the emails you receive.

#### Final Thoughts

Joining a daily recipe service is a fantastic method to enrich your cooking journey. With an abundance of recipes at your disposal, you’ll be motivated to experiment with new dishes and broaden your culinary skills. Sign up now and begin reveling in delightful new recipes delivered straight to your inbox!