This Sicilian-style tuna and basil pizza is a quiet reminder that the best meals don’t need excess. Inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of simple, honest ingredients, this pizza balances savory tuna, fragrant basil, and a light tomato base on a crisp crust. It’s the kind of recipe you make when you want something comforting yet refined — effortless, unfussy, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
½ garlic clove, finely minced
4 tablespoons canned chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 store-bought pre-baked pizza crust (12-inch)
5 large fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
6 ounces canned tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
2½ ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Spread a thin, even layer of the sauce over the pizza crust.
Scatter the basil leaves, green bell pepper slices, and tuna evenly across the surface.
Distribute the mozzarella cubes evenly on top.
Place the pizza directly on the oven rack and bake for 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven, slice into 6 pieces, and serve warm.
