California Herb Pizza Oil is a fresh, zesty alternative to tomato-based pizza sauce. Olive oil, lemon, Dijon mustard, honey, and aromatic herbs create a light base for vegetable and cheese pizzas.
Pour the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice into a mixing bowl.
Add the honey and Dijon mustard.
Whisk until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Add the oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Whisk again until the herbs and seasoning are evenly distributed.
Let the pizza oil rest for 10 minutes so the flavours can develop.
Brush a thin, even layer over prepared pizza dough.
Add the desired cheese and toppings before baking the pizza as directed.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Brush a thin layer of California Herb Pizza Oil over pizza dough before adding toppings. It pairs particularly well with goat cheese, mozzarella, artichokes, mushrooms, roasted peppers, courgette, fresh tomatoes, or rocket. The oil can also be served as a dip for warm focaccia or breadsticks.
Recipe Notes
Whisk the sauce immediately before using it because the oil and lemon juice will gradually separate. Apply it sparingly so the pizza base remains crisp rather than oily. This quantity provides enough sauce for approximately one large pizza serving four people.
Variations
Replace the honey with maple syrup for a vegan version. Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat, minced garlic for a stronger savoury flavour, or finely grated lemon zest for additional freshness. Fresh thyme and oregano can replace the dried herbs when available.
Storage
Transfer unused sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days. Allow refrigerated pizza oil to reach room temperature and whisk thoroughly before using, as the olive oil may become cloudy or partially solidify when chilled.
Wine Advice
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon, mustard, and fresh-tasting herbs. A light Pinot Grigio is another refreshing choice, especially when the pizza is topped with mild cheese and vegetables.