Pizza with Pecan Herb Topping

Process:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly flour a clean surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out the pizza dough until it is 1/8-inch thick. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Gently pierce the dough with a fork to prevent the dough from creating pockets of air when it bakes. Par-bake the crust for 10 to 15 minutes, or until lightly golden in color. (*See recipe notes)
3. While the dough bakes: add pecan pieces, parsley, and garlic powder to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse crumb. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Remove the crust from the oven. Using a spoon, evenly spread the pizza sauce over the crust. Top with shredded Mozzarella cheese, red pepper slices, and onion slices. Sprinkle a 1/3 cup of the pecan mixture evenly over the pizza.
5. Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Serve with remaining pecan herb mixture.

Notes:

1. You can also make the store-bought pizza dough according to package directions if they differ from the ones here.
2. Feel free to get creative with your pizza toppings! Other topping options include: pepperoni, olives, ham, bacon, roasted veggies, etc.
3. If you have leftover pecan herb topping, it’s delicious on top of pasta and salads.