Throughout its lifespan, pizza has grown to be a universal substance. A meal that we all have grown to love and enjoy – topped with virtually any kind of meat, sauce, and vegetable combinations. It’s grown beyond its original fare and into something incredible: the ability to mix and match any flavor to create something unique and delicious. While still being known as pizza. When not cooking at home, however, the pros are getting into this flavor expansion, too. Adding fruits, olives, and layers and layers of native goodies to their very own recipes. In Europe especially, their homegrown goodies are something to talk about for miles around – though generally featuring “normal” pizza toppings. Even long past the vacation is over and you’re back home, eating regular pizza once again (but still dreaming about what could have been across the pond). On your next overseas vacation, be sure and test out these delicious blends and gain a taste for yourself!
5. Grilled Pizzas
It might sound unorthodox, but in European countries, this is one of the premiere ways to cook their doughy slices. It works by placing the entire thing on a grill and letting it absorb that smoky flavor. Not to mention a perfectly crisp crust once cooked. Pro chefs use grills with traditional grates, while the layman might use a slab to ensure nothing slips into the coals. Either way, it’s worth a taste test (or two) – these flavorful pieces are hard to beat!
4. The Ultra Thin Crust
You just think you’ve seen thin crusts here in the U.S. – but once you try an overseas version, you’ll be amazed at just how thin the crusts can become. All while still supporting their toppings (seriously, they defy logic). Be sure to put this on your list of “must try pizzas” for an authentic European experience that your taste buds won’t soon forget. You can even make your own concoction, or ask the pros for recommendations on what toppings taste best.
3. Neapolitan Pizza
No, it’s not just a term for ice cream, Neapolitan is also a type of traditional Italian pizza. It’s made with fresh cheeses (usually parmesan and mozzarella) and fresh basil leaves – as well as fresh tomato sauce. What makes the pizza unique, however, is that toppings come in chunks (vs. American styles with shredded cheeses), which means you might get a different, yet still delicious, flavor every time you bite. Be on the lookout for chunks of mozzarella and basil, both of which pack delicious chunks of flavor.
2. Fresh Herbs
These people are all about the flavor. And not just with spices or ingredients baked into the crust, but by infusing fresh herbs right on top of virtually every dish – with pizza being no exception. Most versions have herbs on top, while some have only herbs baked in. Crusts are topped with olive oil (made from the best quality olives to create the best flavor) and then sprinkled with all types of herbs. Fresh ones, of course, to provide even more flavor. The result is delicious and will have you gunning for fresh herbs in all of your at-home dishes.
1. Rectangle Slices
This version has often been seen in “party boxes” in the U.S. but in Europe, specifically Rome, it’s normal pizza fare. Giant versions are cooked up in large rectangle pans, then customers can choose their own size and pay by weight. Different toppings are usually placed on sections of each pan, allowing for a more personalized taste. (Think of it as choosing your piece of cake.) While it might not sound that much different than any other type of pizza eating, the experience of choosing and weighing alone is enough to remember a great vacation activity.
