Joy is not exactly the first emotion that strikes on a Monday morning. Today, however, I say we take 30 seconds to set the Monday-morning blues aside and focus on one thing that makes us do a happy dance. For me, it’s the return of asparagus that’s making my soul sing this Monday morning. Whether we’re keeping it simple with Roasted Asparagus or Grilled Asparagus, using it to top this Easy Asparagus Tart, or busting out the good stuff for Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus, I try to take as much advantage of its preciously short season as I can. Today, I’m sharing an elegant asparagus pizza with leeks and spicy ground turkey.
How to Make Asparagus Pizza
Lightly crisp asparagus, spicy seasoned turkey with leeks, and fragrant truffle oil are a gourmet combination of ingredients that will elevate your average pizza night to the next level. (This Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pizza is another fancypants pizza to try next.)
The Ingredients
Asparagus. Packed with fiber, vitamin K, and folate, shaving asparagus into ribbons not only looks beautiful, it preserves the asparagus’ flavor and texture. (Next, I’m going to try shaving asparagus for this Scrambled Egg Toast with Roasted Asparagus.)Leeks. The seasonal springtime bestie of asparagus. When caramelized (or made into Potato Leek Soup), leeks acquire a subtle, inherently sweet flavor that pairs lovely with the asparagus.Ground Turkey. Gives the pizza extra heartiness, while still keeping it lean and healthy.Pecorino. A dusting of nutty pecorino cheese is both delectable and necessary. Truffle Oil. An elegant finish that completes this scrumptious spring pie. If you can’t find truffle oil (or don’t want to splurge on it) a quality olive oil will also do nicely.Pizza Dough. The base for this heavenly pizza was my favorite Whole Wheat Pizza Dough. It just never fails me. But you can use your favorite recipe or store-bought crust too.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Leftover pizza may be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.To Reheat. Enjoy cold or warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nothing says Monday joy like asparagus!
Prepare the dough and sauté the toppings the night before.The next night, pull the dough out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking, and you’re 20 minutes away from a fab, fresh spring dinner.I’ve taken to doubling the topping. It’s the same amount of effort, and that way we can enjoy Spicy Turkey, Leek, and Asparagus Pizza two separate nights during the week. It is that good.
