June 23, 2026 · 25 min

Tomato Pesto Flatbreads with Mozzarella and Balsamic Arugula

Lunch25 min456 cal / serving

Celebrate the peak of summer with these vibrant flatbreads, where sweet heirloom grape tomatoes take center stage. Nestled on a bed of pesto and fresh mozzarella, they soften and burst in the oven, creating a juicy, savory bite. A handful of peppery arugula dressed in balsamic vinegar adds a bright, tangy contrast, while toasted walnuts bring a satisfying crunch.

This recipe is all about letting quality ingredients shine. The flatbreads bake up crisp in just minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer. Drizzle with basil oil for an extra layer of herbaceous flavor and get ready for a messy, delicious experience that tastes like summer on a plate.


Recipe details

Lunch25 min456 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories456 kcalProtein8.4 gFat30.9 gCarbs37.4 gSugar7.3 gFiber4.3 gSodium756 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: containsSoy: not detectedSesame: containsMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Fresh Mozzarella4 ounce Fresh MozzarellaView ingredient guide
Walnuts1 ounce WalnutsView ingredient guide
Flatbreads2 unit FlatbreadsView ingredient guide
Pesto2 ounce PestoView ingredient guide
Balsamic Vinegar3 teaspoon Balsamic VinegarView ingredient guide
Arugula2 ounce ArugulaView ingredient guide
Basil Oil5 teaspoon Basil OilView ingredient guide
Olive Oil2 teaspoon Olive OilView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F and adjust a rack to the upper position. Wash and dry all produce. Halve the heirloom grape tomatoes lengthwise. Thinly slice the fresh mozzarella. Roughly chop the walnuts.
  2. Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread the pesto evenly over the top of each flatbread.
  3. Top the flatbreads with the sliced mozzarella and halved tomatoes. Bake until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes have softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (you’ll have extra) and a large drizzle of olive oil.
  5. Add the arugula to the bowl with the dressing and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove the flatbreads from the oven and top with the dressed arugula salad. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top. Drizzle with basil oil to your liking. Cut into slices and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

For extra crispy flatbreads, bake them directly on the oven rack for the last 2 minutes.

If you can’t find basil oil, substitute with extra-virgin olive oil mixed with a pinch of dried basil.

Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of tomato?

Yes, cherry tomatoes or any small, sweet tomato variety work well. If using larger tomatoes, dice them into bite-sized pieces.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover flatbreads in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp up.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free pesto and vegan mozzarella substitute. Omit the mozzarella or replace with a plant-based cheese.

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