The best thing about pizza is that it’s a blank canvas. Whatever you want to put on top, there’s a pretty good chance it’ll work out just fine. Sure, you can search for tips from local experts like a “personal chef in NJ” or even “private cooking classes NJ,” but in reality, all you need to do is experiment.

Pineapple

Let’s get this out of the way: pineapple can be a good pizza topping. If you’ve ever been on an Internet forum, you’ve no doubt seen debates raging about whether or not pineapple should even be in the same room as a pizza. We think it works in moderation.

Pineapple is sweet, so too much of it is going to compete with the sauce and just make flavors clash. But if you combine just a little bit of pineapple with something salty, like capicola or salami, it should work out fine. Set aside your preconceptions and give it a shot!

Jalapeño Peppers

Okay, maybe pineapple just isn’t your thing. That’s fine. Just don’t start Googling “personal chef NJ” yet. You can do this. You know what is a natural match with traditional pizza ingredients like pepperoni and mushrooms? Jalapeño peppers!

The heat of a jalapeño is mellowed out by the creamy mozzarella cheese, but still has enough of a “pop” to hold its own among any number of other toppings. Here’s a bit of advice: if you want to tone down the heat even more, all you need to do is remove the seeds. That’s a pro-tip the great folks who offer private cooking classes in NJ can back up.

Cheese

Now, on the subject of mozzarella — ready to hear something unconventional? Any cheese that gets nice and creamy when it melts can be used on pizza. Do you like cheddar? Cheddar gets melty and gooey like the best mozzarella. Same with Monterey Jack. Both can add a subtle difference to your pizza that will have your guests asking for your secret.

Crust

Finally, as we all know, pizza isn’t just toppings and cheeses; a good crust is essential. Without a solid foundation, pizza will be a soggy mess. Many people don’t know that there are healthy alternatives available for those who want their favorite foods to be a little less decadent.

If you’re trying to eat clean, try making your pizza with a cauliflower crust. Cauliflower has far fewer carbohydrates than traditional white flour and is loaded with great stuff like fiber and tons of vitamins. It bakes up crispy, just like traditional crust. All you need to do is follow a few different instructions and you’ll be pleased with the outcome.

As you can see, when you decide to make a pizza, you’re opening up a whole world of possibilities. Almost anything you can think of can work on a pizza if you’re willing to experiment. Sure, there may be some trial and error, but at the end of it all, you’ll have something new your family will love. Give it a shot – you’ll be happy you did.

"Creating Culinary Magic"

- Chef John Deatcher

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