DePalma’s Pizzarotti: A Culinary Souvenir

I’ll never forget my first visit to Tuscaloosa. The air was thick with anticipation for game day, and the energy of the town was infectious. Amidst the sea of crimson and white, my friend insisted we stop at DePalma’s, a local institution. The dimly lit interior buzzed with conversation, and the aroma of garlic and herbs hung heavy in the air. It was there that I first tasted Pizzarotti – a deceptively simple yet utterly addictive appetizer that perfectly captured the restaurant’s unpretentious charm. This recipe brings back all those wonderful memories.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 small pizza
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 small ready-made pizza dough (such as Boboli, approximately 9 inches)
• 1 tablespoon walnut oil
• Chopped walnuts
• Crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola)

Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Pizza cutter or knife
• Baking sheet or pizza stone (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). If you are using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

2. Prepare the pizza dough: Place the ready-made pizza dough on a baking sheet or directly onto the preheated pizza stone.

3. Brush with walnut oil: Evenly spread the 1 tablespoon of walnut oil over the entire surface of the pizza crust. This will help the crust crisp up beautifully in the oven and impart a subtle nutty flavor.

4. Add toppings: Generously top the oiled crust with crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola). The amount will depend on your preference, but aim for a good, even distribution. Then, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the cheese. Again, adjust the quantity to your liking. Don’t be afraid to pile them on!

5. Bake the Pizzarotti: Place the baking sheet (or the pizza directly on the pizza stone) into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the crust are browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.

6. Remove from oven and slice: Carefully remove the Pizzarotti from the oven using oven mitts. Let it cool slightly for a minute or two before slicing it into wedges with a pizza cutter or a sharp knife.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Elevate the crust: For an extra crispy crust, brush it with a mixture of walnut oil and a pinch of garlic powder before adding the toppings.
• Cheese choices: While Gorgonzola is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton. You can even mix different blue cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added depth.
• Walnut preparation: Toasting the walnuts lightly before chopping them will enhance their nutty flavor and add a pleasant crunch. Simply spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• Don’t overcrowd: Be mindful not to overload the Pizzarotti with too many toppings, as this can make the crust soggy. Less is often more!
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the Pizzarotti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
• Troubleshooting: If the crust is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil. If the cheese isn’t melting evenly, try broiling it for a minute or two at the end of baking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the DePalma’s Pizzarotti immediately after baking, while it’s still warm and the crust is crispy. Cut it into wedges or squares and arrange them on a platter. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a touch of elegance.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy. While not ideal, you can freeze leftover Pizzarotti for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	18g	28%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	7g	14%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust.
• Dairy-free: Substitute the blue cheese with a vegan blue cheese alternative or omit it altogether and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Nut-free: Replace the walnuts with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Herbaceous: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs on top before baking for an aromatic variation.
• Sweet and savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or balsamic glaze over the baked Pizzarotti for a delightful sweet and savory contrast.
• Vegetable boost: Add sliced figs or caramelized onions for extra flavor dimensions.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of pizza dough?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pizza dough you prefer, such as homemade dough, store-bought fresh dough, or even naan bread.

Q: What if I don’t like blue cheese?
A: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with another cheese like goat cheese, feta cheese, or even a sharp cheddar.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Pizzarotti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it; add a few minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I use pre-chopped walnuts?
A: While you can use pre-chopped walnuts, freshly chopped walnuts will have a better flavor and texture.

Q: How do I know when the Pizzarotti is done?
A: The Pizzarotti is done when the edges of the crust are browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

This DePalma’s Pizzarotti is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary passport back to a cherished memory. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavors, and most importantly, share it with the people you love. And if you ever find yourself in Tuscaloosa, be sure to stop by DePalma’s and experience the original! This pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine. Enjoy!