With each passing year, new trends emerge in pizza gastronomy, and 2023 has brought its own set of favorites. At PebbleLane, keeping tabs on the global pizza scene's pulse is our priority. Check out our list of the top tantalizing pizza toppings that have taken the spotlight this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health is now a priority for pizza fans, and unexpectedly, fermented vegetables have taken the pizza stage. Ingredients like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions offer a distinctive tartness that pairs exceptionally well with the creamy essence of cheese and pizza sauce. With their probiotic perks, these fermented options also add innovative textures to the conventional pizza.
Introducing our Fermentation Fête pizza, adorned with our in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, with a cascade of local honey to soften the sour edge. It may be an unconventional pairing, but it's swiftly risen to one of our top specialty requests.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As more diners embrace plant-based diets, the call for pizzas topped with inventive meat substitutes has surged. We’re moving beyond basic veggie toppings with the latest advancements in plant proteins appealing even to the staunchest meat aficionados.
Menu staples now include plant-based crumbles mimicking Italian sausage, flavorful tempeh, jackfruit pulled pork marinated to perfection, and pea protein slices reminiscent of pepperoni. These alternatives have caught the interest of a diverse customer base, admired for their distinct tastes and a more digestible profile.
3. Exclusive Regional Chilis
Those fond of fiery flavors are celebrating as pizza lovers are increasingly going for specific chilis from various regions over the usual red pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilis continue their stronghold in popularity, new additions like the aromatic Aleppo pepper, the smoky ñora chilis from Spain, the fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang paste have also garnered attention on pizzas.
Try our Global Heat pizza for a distinct blend of four different chilis, each lending its distinct taste to various pizza segments, delivering a spicy globe-trotting experience that daring customers particularly favor.
4. Seasonal Foraged Additions
The farm-to-table movement has widened its scope from wilderness to pizza with the popularity of foraged seasonal components. Delectable wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods frequently find their place on pizzas during their peak seasons.
We're also exploring with forest finds such as spring ramps, sea botanicals including dulse and nori, along with spruce tips giving a distinct aromatic touch. These natural elements transport our patrons closer to nature and offer flavors unfound in standard cultivation.
5. Distinct Honey Drizzles
The interplay of honey's sweetness with savory notes has secured its spot beyond a mere fad. 2023 witnesses a surge in specialty honey types being drizzled onto pizzas before they're served.
Honeys infused with truffle, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and CBD concoctions are enhancing menus nationwide. These final touches are not just additional flavors; they transform even the simplest pizzas into culinary delights.
Honorable Mentions
While these toppings are our top picks, others that are stirring interest but didn't make the primary list include:
- Salted egg yolks, gracing pizzas with a velvety texture
- Pickled stone fruits, like peaches and cherries, offering a tart twist
- Ancient grains, including crunchy farro or popped sorghum for a textural contrast
- Gourmet butter dollops, specifically those cultured or blended with herbs
Whether your preference lies with the time-honored classics or if you’re the type inclined to sample bold new flavor pairings, pizza retains its title as one of the most versatile and universally cherished dishes. At PebbleLane, we revere the classics and simultaneously welcome novelty, which is why our menu features both traditional Margherita as well as avant-garde pies.
Did any of these trendy toppings catch your fancy, or do you have a special combination in mind that you're eager to see on our menu? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!