Shrimp and Artichoke Naan Pizza with Havarti Cheese

 

A Harmonious, Savory Blend of Land and Sea

Welcome to our Recipe of the Week! This time, we bring you a mouthwatering fusion of flavors with our Grilled Shrimp and Artichoke Naan Pizza with Havarti Cheese. This unique twist on traditional pizza combines the Indian-inspired naan bread with succulent grilled shrimp, tangy artichoke hearts, and creamy Havarti cheese. But before we dive into the recipe, let's explore a brief history of naan and understand why these ingredients work so harmoniously together.

 

A Brief History of Naan: Naan is a traditional Indian bread that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Persian Empire, where it was first baked in clay ovens known as tandoors. The word "naan" is derived from the Persian word "non," meaning bread. Over time, naan made its way to the Indian subcontinent and became an integral part of Indian cuisine.

 

Traditionally, naan is made with a combination of all-purpose flour, yeast, yogurt, and ghee (clarified butter). It is typically cooked in a tandoor, which gives it a distinctive smoky flavor and a fluffy texture. Naan can be served plain or stuffed with various fillings like cheese, garlic, or herbs, making it a versatile and delicious bread option.

 

 

Naan Flatbread

 

The Perfect Flavor Combination: 

 

Now, let's delve into why the ingredients in our Shrimp and Artichoke Naan Pizza work so harmoniously together.

  1. Naan Bread: Naan provides the perfect base for this pizza. Its soft and slightly chewy texture complements the toppings while adding a unique flavor. The smoky undertones from grilling the naan add depth to the overall taste, enhancing the enjoyment of every bite.

  2. Grilled Shrimp: The succulent and juicy grilled shrimp bring a delightful seafood element to the pizza. Their slightly charred exterior and tender interior provide a pleasant contrast in texture. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs wonderfully with the other savory ingredients, creating a well-balanced combination.

  3. Artichoke Hearts: Artichoke hearts lend a tangy and slightly earthy flavor to the pizza. Their tender and meaty texture adds substance and complements the shrimp beautifully. The artichokes also provide a unique touch that distinguishes this pizza from more traditional versions.

  4. Havarti Cheese: Havarti cheese is a creamy, semi-soft Danish cheese with a mild, buttery flavor. It melts beautifully, creating a luscious layer of cheesy goodness on the pizza. The richness of Havarti cheese adds a luxurious element and helps bind all the flavors together.

  5. Garlic aioli: With its rich and creamy texture and strong garlic flavor, pairs exceptionally well with the savory shrimp and artichoke toppings. The garlic in the aioli enhances the overall taste profile of the pizza, adding a delicious depth of flavor.

Recipe: Shrimp and Artichoke Naan Pizza with Havarti Cheese


Ingredients:

  •   2 large naan breads, store-bought or scratch-made
  •   10 jumbo cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  •   1 cup artichoke hearts, drained - thinly sliced or roughly chopped
  •   1 cup shredded Havarti cheese
  •   ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  •   ¼ cup mayonnaise
  •   1 clove garlic, minced (about a teaspoon)
  •   2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  •   2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  •   1 tablespoon olive oil
  •   Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill or oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well to create the garlic-parsley sauce.

  3. Place the naan breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each naan with olive oil.

  4. Spread the garlic-parsley sauce evenly over the naan breads, leaving a small border around the edges.

  5. Sprinkle half of the shredded Havarti cheese over each naan bread.

  6. Distribute the cooked shrimp* and chopped artichoke hearts evenly over the pizzas.

  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. We generally don't add salt – the cheese adds enough umami.

  8. Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the top of the pizzas.

  9. Place the baking sheet in the preheated grill or oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the naan are golden brown.

  10. Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

  11. Cut the pizzas into slices and serve while still warm.

     

    *We like to use deveined, shell-on shrimp. Sauté shrimp over medium high-heat, in their shells, for one minute per side. Remove from heat to cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. 

     

    Enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors in our Grilled Shrimp and Artichoke Naan Pizza with Havarti Cheese. This recipe brings together the best of Indian and Mediterranean cuisines, creating a truly delightful experience — It makes a great appetizer or main course. Bon appétit!

    As always, reach out to The Small Town Chef with any questions or comments. We look forward to hearing from you.
     

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Location: Northampton, PA, USA

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