Caramelized Onion Fig Goat Cheese (Printable Version)

Sweet onions, figs, goat cheese, crisp arugula, and balsamic create a gourmet flavor pairing. #GourmetPizza #Vegetarian #SweetAndSavory

# Ingredients:

→ Whole Wheat Pizza Dough

01 - 3/4 cup warm unsweetened almond milk (110-115°F)
02 - 1/2 tablespoon honey
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
05 - 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
06 - 1/2 tablespoon yellow cornmeal, plus extra for dusting
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - Olive oil, for brushing the crust

→ Pizza Toppings

09 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
10 - 1 yellow onion, sliced
11 - 12 dried mission figs, stems trimmed and quartered
12 - 5 ounces soft fresh goat cheese, crumbled
13 - 1 to 2 cups fresh arugula

→ Balsamic Reduction

14 - 1/2 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine warm almond milk, honey, and olive oil. Stir in instant yeast and let rest for 5 minutes. Add whole wheat pastry flour, yellow cornmeal, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise until doubled in volume.
02 - Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a 12-inch round. Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet or pizza stone. Lightly brush the surface with olive oil.
03 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until soft and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
04 - In a small saucepan, bring balsamic vinegar to a gentle simmer over low heat. Reduce by half, about 10 minutes, until syrupy. Set aside to cool slightly.
05 - Spread caramelized onions evenly over the prepared dough. Arrange quartered dried figs on top, then sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese.
06 - Preheat oven to 450°F. Bake pizza for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
07 - Remove pizza from the oven. Scatter fresh arugula over the hot surface and finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic reduction. Slice and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat contrast. Enhance the flavor profile with additional fresh herbs or assorted vegetables as desired.