Pineapple on pizza—oh, the controversy it sparks! Some love it, others not so much. But for those who crave that sweet and savory combination, the real question is: what goes well with pineapple on pizza? Well, buckle up, because we’re diving into a world of flavors that pair perfectly with this tropical treat. Whether you’re a die-hard pineapple lover or just curious, we’ve got some delicious suggestions that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Why Is Pineapple on Pizza So Popular?
Let’s start with the basics. Why do people love pineapple on pizza so much? It’s that magical contrast of sweet and savory. Pineapple brings a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the salty, savory toppings like ham and bacon. It’s like a party in your mouth! But, not everyone is sold on this combo, which makes it all the more interesting to explore what can take it to the next level.
What Meat Toppings Go Well with Pineapple on Pizza?
When it comes to meat, not all are created equal when paired with pineapple. Here are some top choices that bring out the best in your pineapple-topped pizza:
Ham: The Classic Choice
Ham is the classic pairing with pineapple. The salty, slightly sweet flavor of ham blends seamlessly with the juicy pineapple, creating a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.
Ham & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Meat Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Ham | Salty, sweet | Complements the sweetness of pineapple and adds a savory balance. |
Bacon: Crispy and Delicious
Bacon brings a crispy, smoky element to your pizza that pairs wonderfully with pineapple. The contrast between the crunchy bacon and the soft, juicy pineapple is a match made in heaven.
Bacon & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Meat Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Smoky, salty | Adds crunch and a smoky depth that contrasts with the sweetness of pineapple. |
Chicken: Light and Savory
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, grilled or roasted chicken is an excellent choice. The mild flavor of chicken allows the pineapple to shine, while still adding a satisfying savory note.
Chicken & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Meat Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Mild, savory | A lighter option that lets pineapple’s flavor stand out without overpowering it. |
What Cheese Pairs Best with Pineapple on Pizza?
Ah, cheese—the cornerstone of any good pizza. But what cheese goes well with pineapple on Pizza? Here are a few that do the job perfectly:
Mozzarella: The Go-To Cheese
Mozzarella is the most common cheese on pizzas, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s mild, melty, and complements the sweetness of pineapple without competing for attention.
Mozzarella & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | Mild, creamy | Melts well and balances the sweetness of pineapple with its creamy texture. |
Feta: A Tangy Twist
For those who like a bit of tang, feta cheese is an exciting choice. Its crumbly texture and salty, tangy flavor provide a unique contrast to the sweet pineapple on pizza, making every bite interesting.
Feta & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Feta | Salty, tangy | Adds a tangy contrast that enhances the sweetness of pineapple. |
Goat Cheese: Creamy and Flavorful
Goat cheese offers a creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with pineapple. It’s rich and adds a gourmet twist to your pizza.
Goat Cheese & Pineapple Flavor Pairing
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Goat Cheese | Tangy, creamy | Provides a rich, tangy balance to the sweet pineapple. |
What Vegetables Go Well with Pineapple on Pizza?
Vegetables add color, crunch, and extra flavor to your pineapple-topped pizza. Let’s explore some that work wonders:
Bell Peppers: Sweet and Crunchy
Bell peppers, especially red and yellow ones, add a sweet crunch that complements the juicy pineapple. They’re colorful and bring a fresh, crisp texture to the pizza.
Bell Peppers & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Vegetable | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | Sweet, crunchy | Adds a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the softness of pineapple. |
Red Onions: A Subtle Sharpness
Red onions add a mild sharpness that cuts through the sweetness of pineapple, creating a balanced flavor profile. They also bring a lovely pop of color to your pizza.
Red Onions & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Vegetable | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Red Onions | Mild, sharp | Balances the sweetness with a subtle, sharp contrast. |
Jalapeños: A Spicy Kick
For those who like a bit of heat, jalapeños are a great addition. The spicy kick they provide contrasts with the sweetness of pineapple, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Jalapeños & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Vegetable | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Jalapeños | Spicy, sharp | Adds heat that contrasts with the sweetness of pineapple. |
What Sauces Go Well with Pineapple on Pizza?
Now, let’s talk sauce! The sauce can make or break your pizza, so choosing the right one is key:
Tomato Sauce: The Classic Base
Tomato sauce is a classic pizza base that works well with pineapple. Its slightly tangy and sweet flavor complements the pineapple without overpowering it.
Tomato Sauce & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato Sauce | Tangy, sweet | Classic choice that balances the sweetness of pineapple with its tangy flavor. |
BBQ Sauce: Sweet and Smoky
BBQ sauce is a bold choice that adds a sweet and smoky flavor to your pizza. It enhances the sweetness of the pineapple while adding a rich depth of flavor.
BBQ Sauce & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Sauce | Sweet, smoky | Adds a rich, smoky sweetness that complements the pineapple. |
Pesto: A Fresh, Herbaceous Option
Pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan, brings a herbaceous flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of pineapple. It’s a refreshing twist for those who want something different.
Pesto & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Pesto | Herbaceous, fresh | Adds a fresh, herbal contrast to the sweet pineapple. |
What Herbs and Spices Enhance Pineapple on Pizza?
Herbs and spices can take your pineapple pizza to the next level. Here are a few that work wonders:
Basil: Fresh and Fragrant
Basil adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the pineapple’s sweetness. It’s a classic herb that brings a burst of freshness to your pizza.
Basil & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Herb/Spice | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Basil | Fresh, sweet | Enhances the sweetness of pineapple with its fresh, fragrant notes. |
Oregano: Earthy and Aromatic
Oregano is a staple herb in Italian cuisine, and it works well with pineapple by adding an earthy, aromatic flavor that balances the sweetness.
Oregano & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Herb/Spice | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Oregano | Earthy, aromatic | Adds an earthy, aromatic contrast to the sweetness of pineapple. |
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A Fiery Finish
For those who like a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes are a great addition. They add a fiery kick that contrasts with the pineapple’s sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Herb/Spice | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Red Pepper | Spicy, sharp | Adds heat and depth, contrasting the sweetness of pineapple. |
What About Non-Traditional Toppings for Pineapple on Pizza?
Feeling adventurous? Here are some non-traditional toppings that pair surprisingly well with pineapple:
Coconut: Tropical and Sweet
Coconut shavings add a tropical twist to your pizza, enhancing the sweetness of the pineapple. It’s a bold choice for those who love experimenting with flavors.
Coconut & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Topping Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut | Sweet, tropical | Enhances the tropical sweetness of pineapple. |
Avocado: Creamy and Rich
Avocado brings a creamy, rich texture to your pizza, providing a cool contrast to the warm, juicy pineapple. It’s a unique combination that’s worth trying.
Avocado & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Topping Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado | Creamy, rich | Adds a creamy contrast to the juicy sweetness of pineapple. |
Blue Cheese: Bold and Tangy
For a strong, tangy flavor, blue cheese is a daring choice. Its bold taste contrasts sharply with the sweet pineapple, creating a pizza that’s full of surprises.
Blue Cheese & Pineapple Flavor Pairing:
| Topping Type | Flavor Profile | Why It Works with Pineapple |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Bold, tangy | Provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of pineapple. |
Conclusion
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to the best toppings that go well with pineapple on pizza. Whether you stick with the classics like ham and mozzarella or venture into more adventurous territory with avocado and blue cheese, the key is finding the balance that delights your taste buds. Pineapple on pizza is more than just a controversial topping; it’s an opportunity to explore a world of flavors. So, the next time you’re making or ordering pizza, consider one of these combinations to take your pineapple-topped creation to the next level.
FAQs
What is the most popular topping combination with pineapple on pizza?
The most popular combination is pineapple with ham, often referred to as a Hawaiian pizza. The salty-sweet pairing is a favorite for many.
Can you add pineapple to any type of pizza?
Yes, pineapple can be added to any pizza, but it pairs best with savory or slightly sweet toppings like ham, bacon, or BBQ sauce.
What cheese works best with pineapple on pizza?
Mozzarella is the most popular cheese choice, but feta and goat cheese also complement pineapple well with their tangy flavors.
Is pineapple on pizza a healthy option?
Pineapple adds a dose of vitamin C and fiber to your pizza, making it a slightly healthier option, especially when paired with lean meats and vegetables.
Can you make a vegetarian pizza with pineapple?
Absolutely! Pair pineapple with veggies like bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños for a delicious vegetarian pizza.