Crafting the Perfect Pizza with Chef Joe Sasto

A Masterclass in Modern Ingredients and Next-Level Flavor

Our favorite mustached chef is back, this time with expert advice for dreaming up the perfect summer pizzas. Chef Joe Sasto’s passion is deeply rooted in Italian cuisine - from learning classic recipes alongside his mother at a young age to serving as Executive Sous Chef at two- and three-star Michelin restaurants in the Bay Area. His latest creation perfectly balances tradition and innovation, brought to life with the bright, fresh flavors of Fresh Origins ingredients.

Squash Blossom and Garlic Flower

Chef Sasto’s pizza begins with a creamy whipped ricotta base infused with the bold, peppery essence of cacio e pepe. Delicately shaved zucchini and a bright squash & basil pesto add layers of fresh, seasonal flavor. Finished with Fresh Origins Squash Blossoms and aromatic Garlic Flowers, this dish is a celebration of summer’s finest ingredients.

Squash Blossom

Delicate and versatile, Squash Blossoms add elegance and flair to dishes. Whether stuffed with ricotta, layered on pizza, or battered and fried, they shine on any plate. Find more information about Squash Blossom here.

Garlic Flower

Garlic Flower delivers bold garlic flavor and crisp texture, adding depth and contrast to pizzas. Sprinkle them on top for a fragrant finish that is perfect for a unique twist on toppings. Find more information about Garlic Flower here.

Check out some other fresh ingredients for next-level pies:

Micro Arugula Crimson Blaze™

For a fiery finish, reach for Micro Arugula Crimson Blaze™. Its deep red stems and spicy bite add both color and character to rich, cheesy pizzas like a creamy white mushroom pie. For color and contrast, scatter a generous pinch on fresh-from-the-oven pizza for a zesty bite that cuts through the richness. Find more information about Micro Arugula Crimson Blaze™ here.

Micro Onion

To bring a subtle onion note without overpowering other ingredients, Micro Onion is the perfect solution. Layer them onto pizzas with roasted vegetables or cured meats, where its sweet-sharp flavor mimics slow-cooked onions in a fresher, more refined way. Try it on a sausage and fennel pizza for a modern twist on a classic flavor pairing. Find more information about Micro Onion here.

Micro Oregano

Micro Oregano brings bold, earthy depth to wood-fired Margheritas or mushroom pies. With more concentrated flavor and unique visual appeal than its full-size counterpart, this tiny herb is the perfect topping for a variety of pizzas and Italian dishes. Find more information about Micro Oregano here.

Micro Basil Italian

For a bright and summery pizza, Micro Basil Italian offers that familiar sweet-savory basil note, perfect for layering with fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes. Consider swapping the traditional herb, fresh or dried, for the easy to use and flavor-packed Micro Basil Italian. Find more information about Micro Basil Italian here.

Fennel Flower

To bring fragrance and visual elegance to the plate, try sprinkling Fennel Flowers over pizzas with citrus, seafood, or ricotta-based toppings. Their delicate appearance and light anise aroma elevate the experience and give a subtle nod to the fennel seeds often found in Italian meats. Find more information about Fennel Flower here.

Chive Blossom

Finally, for a truly showstopping finish, Chive Blossoms bring both flavor and flair. These lavender-hued blossoms add a mild onion essence and dramatic color contrast, especially stunning on white or green-sauced pizzas. Pair them with summertime pizzas topped with squash, burrata, and soft herbs. Find more information about Chive Blossom here.