Whether you’re craving something extravagant, exploring international flavors, or simply looking for a fun culinary adventure, from exotic ingredients to familiar favorites with a twist, we uncover pizza toppings that start with the letter “E”.
1. Eggplant
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a delicious pizza topping. Originating in India, eggplants are now widely cultivated and enjoyed in various cuisines around the world. They have a smooth and creamy texture when cooked, and their mild flavor pairs well with other ingredients. Eggplant slices or cubes are often roasted or grilled before being added to pizzas, adding a savory and slightly sweet taste. This topping is particularly popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-style pizzas, where it complements the flavors of herbs, cheeses, and olive oil.
2. Extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is not just a cooking oil, but also a flavorful and fragrant pizza topping. It has its roots in ancient Mediterranean civilizations and is still widely produced in countries such as Italy, Greece, and Spain. Known for its rich taste and health benefits, extra virgin olive oil is made from the pressing of fresh olives, resulting in a high-quality oil with a distinctive fruity flavor and low acidity. Drizzling a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over a pizza before or after baking can enhance the overall taste and add a touch of richness. Its popularity extends across many regions where the Mediterranean diet is appreciated.
3. Edamame
Edamame, which are young soybeans, make for an interesting and nutritious pizza topping. Originally from East Asia, edamame has gained popularity worldwide due to its high protein content and delightful flavor. Typically, the edamame beans are blanched and removed from their pods before being used as a topping. They add a satisfying crunch and a subtly sweet taste to the pizza. Edamame is commonly enjoyed in Asian-inspired pizzas, where it pairs well with ingredients like teriyaki sauce, sesame seeds, and fresh vegetables.
4. Emmental cheese
Emmental cheese, often referred to as Swiss cheese, is a classic cheese choice for many pizza lovers. It originated in the Emmental region of Switzerland and is now enjoyed worldwide. Emmental is known for its characteristic large and irregular holes, as well as its nutty and slightly sweet flavor. The cheese has a smooth and creamy texture, making it perfect for melting over pizzas. Emmental cheese adds a rich and distinctive taste to both traditional and gourmet pizza creations. It is particularly popular in European and North American cuisines, where it is often combined with other cheese varieties for a delightful flavor combination.
5. Escarole
Escarole is a leafy green vegetable that can add a delightful crunch and slightly bitter taste to pizzas. It belongs to the chicory family and is commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. Escarole has a long history in Mediterranean cooking and is popular in dishes like soups, salads, and pizzas. When used as a pizza topping, the escarole leaves are typically lightly sautéed or wilted to enhance their flavor and reduce their bitterness. This topping is especially enjoyed in regions where Italian cuisine has a strong influence.
6. Enoki mushrooms
Enoki mushrooms, also known as golden needle mushrooms, are a popular pizza topping originating from East Asia, particularly Japan and China. These delicate and slender mushrooms have a mild, slightly fruity flavor and a crunchy texture. They are often used in Asian-inspired pizzas to add a unique visual appeal and a subtle earthy taste. Enoki mushrooms can be enjoyed raw or lightly cooked, and their delicate appearance makes them a visually pleasing addition to pizza toppings.
7. Eel
Eel, a type of fish with a distinctive flavor, can be a unique and delicious pizza topping. Eels have been consumed in various cultures for centuries and are particularly popular in Asian and European cuisines. They have a rich and oily taste that adds depth to pizza toppings. Eel can be prepared in different ways before being used as a pizza topping, such as marinating or grilling. Its popularity as a pizza topping may vary depending on regional preferences and availability of eel in local seafood markets.
8. Elote
Elote, a popular street food in Mexico, is a delicious pizza topping that adds a burst of flavor and texture. Elote refers to grilled corn on the cob that is typically slathered with a mixture of mayonnaise, Mexican crema, chili powder, lime juice, and sprinkled with cotija cheese. The grilled corn is then cut into smaller pieces and used as a topping on pizzas. This Mexican-inspired topping brings a combination of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors to the pizza, creating a delightful taste experience. Elote is particularly popular in Mexico and has gained popularity in various parts of the world where Mexican cuisine is appreciated.
9. Egg
Eggs are a versatile and protein-rich pizza topping that can be enjoyed in various ways. While eggs are commonly associated with breakfast dishes, they can also be cracked directly onto pizzas and baked to perfection. The result is a pizza with a rich and creamy egg yolk, which adds a luscious texture and a slightly savory flavor. Eggs on pizza are enjoyed in different parts of the world, with variations in preparation and cooking methods. From the traditional Margherita pizza with a sunny-side-up egg in the center to gourmet pizzas with poached eggs or scrambled eggs, this topping provides a unique twist to the classic pizza.
10. Edible flowers
Edible flowers, as the name suggests, are flowers that are safe for human consumption and can be used as a creative and visually appealing pizza topping. These flowers come in various colors, shapes, and flavors, and can add a touch of elegance and freshness to pizzas. Common edible flowers used as pizza toppings include marigold, pansy, nasturtium, and lavender blossoms. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal of the pizza, but they also provide a delicate floral aroma and a subtle hint of flavor. Edible flowers on pizzas are popular in gourmet and artisanal pizza establishments that emphasize unique and visually stunning creations.
11. Elderflower syrup
Elderflower syrup, derived from the blossoms of the elderflower plant, is a sweet and aromatic topping that can elevate the taste of pizzas. The syrup is made by infusing the flowers in a sugar syrup, resulting in a fragrant and floral syrup with a delicate sweetness. When drizzled over dessert pizzas, elderflower syrup imparts a unique and refreshing flavor profile. This topping is particularly popular in Scandinavian and European cuisines, where elderflower-based beverages and desserts are widely enjoyed. Its subtle floral notes and sweet taste make it a delightful addition to pizzas for those seeking a distinctive and floral twist to their pizza experience.
12. Enchilada sauce
Enchilada sauce is a savory and spicy topping that originates from Mexican cuisine. It is a rich tomato-based sauce infused with various spices, including chili powder, cumin, garlic, and onion. The sauce adds a bold and robust flavor to pizzas, reminiscent of the traditional Mexican dish, enchiladas. Enchilada sauce is popular in regions where Mexican cuisine has a strong influence, such as Mexico itself, the southwestern United States, and parts of Central and South America. Its tangy and zesty profile brings a distinct taste to pizzas, making them a flavorful and satisfying choice.
13. Endive
Endive, also known as Belgian endive or chicory, is a leafy vegetable with a crisp texture and a slightly bitter taste. It is often used as a pizza topping to add a refreshing and contrasting element to the flavors. The leaves of endive can be used whole or chopped and sprinkled over the pizza. The bitterness of endive provides a pleasant contrast to the other ingredients, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile. Endive is popular in European cuisines, particularly in Belgium and France, where it is used in salads and various other dishes. Its inclusion as a pizza topping brings a unique and sophisticated touch to the culinary experience.
14. Everything bagel seasoning
Everything bagel seasoning is a delightful blend of ingredients typically used to enhance the flavor of bagels. This seasoning mix consists of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt, creating a savory and aromatic combination. While traditionally used on bagels, everything bagel seasoning has become a popular pizza topping, particularly in North America. When sprinkled over the pizza, it adds a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch. The seasoning’s popularity has extended beyond bagels, finding its way into various dishes where its savory and aromatic qualities can be enjoyed.
15. Elk sausage
Elk sausage is a unique and flavorful pizza topping made from the meat of elk, a type of large deer native to North America and Eurasia. It is often used as a substitute for traditional pork or beef sausages, offering a leaner and slightly gamey flavor. Elk sausage adds a distinctive taste to pizzas, with its rich and savory profile. This topping is popular in regions where elk meat is readily available, such as parts of North America, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe. Its inclusion on pizzas provides a flavorful alternative for those seeking a unique and adventurous culinary experience.
16. Ethiopian berbere spice
Ethiopian berbere spice is a flavorful blend of spices that originates from Ethiopia, a country known for its rich culinary traditions. It is a complex mixture that typically includes chili peppers, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, and various aromatic spices. Berbere spice adds a warm and spicy kick to dishes, including pizzas. Its origins can be traced back to Ethiopian cuisine, where it is widely used in traditional dishes like stews and sauces. The popularity of Ethiopian cuisine has spread to different parts of the world, and berbere spice has gained recognition and appreciation for its bold and aromatic flavors. When used as a pizza topping, berbere spice infuses the pizza with a distinctive Ethiopian flair, offering a delightful and exotic taste experience.
17. Edam cheese
Edam cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the Netherlands. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. Edam cheese is named after the town of Edam in the Netherlands, where it was traditionally produced. It is a popular cheese variety worldwide and is used as a pizza topping in many regions. Edam cheese melts well, making it an excellent choice for pizzas, where it adds a creamy and slightly tangy taste. Its popularity extends beyond the Netherlands, with people enjoying its flavor and versatility in various cuisines around the globe. When used as a pizza topping, Edam cheese provides a delightful cheesy goodness and pairs well with a wide range of other ingredients.
18. Elderberry jam
Elderberry jam is a delightful and unique pizza topping that adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to pizzas. It is made from the berries of the elderflower plant, which grows in various regions around the world. Elderberry jam is popular in European cuisine, particularly in countries like France and Germany, where elderberries are abundant. The jam is made by cooking the elderberries with sugar and other ingredients to create a thick and flavorful spread. When used as a pizza topping, elderberry jam adds a burst of fruity flavor and pairs well with both savory and sweet ingredients, creating a unique and delicious taste experience.
19. Espelette pepper
Espelette pepper, also known as Piment d’Espelette, is a type of chili pepper that is named after the town of Espelette in the Basque region of France. It is a key ingredient in Basque cuisine and is highly regarded for its unique flavor and mild heat. The Espelette pepper has a smoky and slightly sweet taste with a moderate level of spiciness, making it a versatile pizza topping for those who enjoy a hint of heat. The pepper is typically dried and ground into a fine powder, which is then sprinkled over pizzas to add a distinct flavor profile. Espelette pepper is particularly popular in southwestern France and is often used in traditional Basque dishes. Its inclusion as a pizza topping brings a touch of the Basque culinary tradition and a delightful kick of spice to pizzas.
