The Pizza Tree with Mozzarella and Tomato is a delicious, quick, and perfect idea to bring all the holiday magic to the table.
This Christmas appetizer is a true spectacle, both for the eyes and the palate, and it’s so easy to prepare that it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes for the December period.
The recipe starts with a ready-made pizza base, ideal when you want to achieve a perfect result without spending hours in the kitchen. You divide it into 16 pieces and fill them with mozzarella cubes and chopped basil: a melty and fragrant filling that captivates at the first bite. Each ball is then topped with tomato pulp and another small piece of mozzarella, which will melt during cooking, creating a super inviting effect.
Once the balls are arranged in a tree shape, just pop them in the oven and let the scent of pizza, tomato, and basil fill the kitchen. The result is a soft, melty, and scenic Christmas tree, perfect to serve as an appetizer, aperitif, or finger food at holiday dinners.
If you want to impress your guests with something simple yet striking, this savory Christmas Tree is the right recipe: quick to make, irresistible to taste, and beautiful to bring to the table. Last but not least, it’s also super versatile because you can vary the filling as you like.
Also try these other tantalizing appetizers:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 16Pieces
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Christmas
Ingredients for Pizza Tree with Mozzarella and Tomato
- 1 roll pizza base
- 7 oz mozzarella
- 3.5 oz tomato pulp
- 2 pinches salt
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Preparation of Pizza Tree with Mozzarella and Tomato
Cut the mozzarella into cubes and season the tomato pulp with salt and oil.
Roll out the ready-made pizza base on the work surface and divide it into 16 squares.
Fill each square with mozzarella cubes, setting aside 16 pieces. Then close them to form a ball (pinch the closure well so that the filling does not escape).
Arrange the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating your pizza tree. Finally, distribute a little tomato pulp and a remaining piece of mozzarella on each.
Bake in a preheated oven at 392°F for 20 minutes.
Suggestions for Varying the Filling
Want to make your Pizza Tree even more personal? Here are some tasty variations:
–Mozzarella and Cooked Ham: add some diced ham for a richer flavor.
–Smoked Scamorza: it melts perfectly and gives a more intense note.
–Ricotta and Spinach: ideal if you prefer a more delicate alternative, perfect even for children.
–Basil Pesto: spread a thin layer inside the ball for an irresistible aromatic touch.
–Sun-dried Tomatoes and Provola: a rustic and super flavorful variant.
Storage of the Christmas Pizza Tree with Mozzarella
The Pizza Tree with Mozzarella and Tomato is delicious freshly baked, when the mozzarella is still melty and the basil aroma is at its peak. If any remains, you can store it in the refrigerator for 1 day, well sealed in an airtight container. Before serving, heat it in the oven at 302°F for 8–10 minutes.
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Collection of Tasty Christmas Appetizers: tasty and scenic ideas to impress your guests at the table
FAQ
Can I prepare the Pizza Tree in advance?
Yes, you can form the balls and assemble the tree up to 3 hours in advance. Keep it in the fridge and add the mozzarella on top only before baking.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely! Oregano, thyme, or a pinch of pepper make the tree even more fragrant.
