From gooey cheeses to gourmet ingredients, this collection of toppings starting with the letter G will elevate your pizza game to a whole new level.
1. Green Peppers
Green peppers, also known as bell peppers, are a popular pizza topping cherished for their vibrant color and mild flavor. These peppers are harvested when they are still green and have a crisp texture that adds a refreshing crunch to pizzas. While their origin dates back to Central and South America, green peppers are now cultivated and enjoyed worldwide. They are particularly favored in North American and Mediterranean cuisines. When added to pizzas, green peppers provide a subtle sweetness and a subtle earthy taste, complementing other toppings and creating a delightful combination of flavors.
2. Garlic
Garlic, a versatile ingredient used in various culinary traditions, brings its distinct aroma and pungent taste to pizzas. Garlic has a long history of culinary and medicinal use in Central Asia. Its popularity as a pizza topping can be attributed to its ability to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. Whether minced, sliced, or roasted, garlic adds a rich and savory note to pizzas. It is widely appreciated in Italian cuisine and has become a staple topping in many parts of the world.
3. Gold flakes
Gold flakes, also known as edible gold leaf, are a luxurious and visually stunning addition to pizzas. While gold flakes themselves do not have a distinct taste, they add a touch of elegance and extravagance to the presentation of the dish. Edible gold has been used in culinary creations for centuries, especially in high-end dining establishments and special occasions. When used on pizzas, gold flakes are typically sprinkled sparingly over the toppings, creating a dazzling and captivating appearance. While this topping is not widespread and is more commonly found in gourmet or experimental pizza creations, it adds a touch of opulence and sophistication to the dining experience.
4. Ground Beef
Ground beef is a classic and widely enjoyed pizza topping that originates from the tradition of incorporating meat into pizza recipes. This topping typically consists of seasoned, cooked, and crumbled beef that is spread evenly over the pizza crust. Ground beef is particularly popular in North American and Italian-American cuisines. Its rich and savory taste pairs well with a variety of other ingredients, such as cheese, onions, and peppers. Whether used as the main protein or in combination with other toppings, ground beef adds a satisfying meaty flavor to pizzas.
5. Gorgonzola Cheese
Gorgonzola cheese, named after the Italian town of Gorgonzola, is a distinctive blue cheese with a rich and creamy texture. It is made from cow’s milk and is aged for several months to develop its signature flavor. Gorgonzola cheese is characterized by its blue-green veins and tangy taste, which adds a bold and complex dimension to pizzas. Originating from the Lombardy region of Italy, Gorgonzola cheese has gained popularity worldwide and is especially cherished in Italian cuisine. Its creamy and slightly salty profile pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings, making it a versatile choice for pizza enthusiasts.
6. Goat Cheese
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is a creamy and tangy cheese made from the milk of goats. It has a distinct flavor profile and a smooth texture that crumbles easily. Originating from various regions across the globe, including Europe and the Mediterranean, goat cheese has found its place as a beloved pizza topping in many cuisines. It is particularly popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The unique taste of goat cheese adds a delightful tanginess and a slightly acidic note to pizzas. Its creamy texture and ability to melt beautifully when heated make it a perfect choice for adding a creamy element to both vegetarian and meat-based pizzas.
7. Greek Olives
Greek olives, often referred to as Kalamata olives, are a staple ingredient in Greek cuisine and have gained popularity as a pizza topping worldwide. These olives are typically purplish-black in color and have a rich, fruity flavor. The origin of Greek olives can be traced back to Greece, where they are cultivated and processed using traditional methods. When used as a pizza topping, Greek olives bring a briny and tangy taste that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Their firm texture and characteristic flavor make them an excellent accompaniment to other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients on pizzas, such as feta cheese, tomatoes, and oregano.
8. Gouda Cheese
Gouda cheese, hailing from the Netherlands, is a semi-hard cheese known for its creamy and slightly nutty taste. This cheese is made from cow’s milk and is named after the city of Gouda, where it was historically traded. Gouda cheese has become popular worldwide and is commonly used as a pizza topping in various cuisines. Its smooth texture and mild flavor profile make it a versatile choice for pizzas. When melted, Gouda cheese develops a silky consistency and a rich, savory taste. It pairs well with a wide range of toppings, from vegetables to meats, and adds a touch of creaminess and richness to every bite.
9. Guacamole
Guacamole is a creamy and flavorful topping that originates from Mexican cuisine. It is made by mashing ripe avocados and combining them with lime juice, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and various seasonings. While traditionally used as a dip or condiment, guacamole has also become a popular pizza topping. Its smooth and buttery texture, combined with the fresh and tangy flavors of the ingredients, brings a delightful twist to pizza creations. Guacamole is particularly enjoyed in North and Central America, where Mexican-inspired flavors are cherished.
10. Green Olives
Green olives are a classic pizza topping known for their briny and tangy taste. These olives are harvested when they are unripe, resulting in their vibrant green color. Green olives are commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine and are a popular addition to pizzas in regions such as Italy, Greece, and Spain. Their slightly bitter and salty flavor adds a distinct element to the overall taste of the pizza. Whether used whole or sliced, green olives contribute a unique texture and a burst of flavor that complements a variety of other ingredients.
11. Gruyère Cheese
Gruyère cheese is a Swiss cheese that has a rich and nutty flavor profile. It is named after the town of Gruyères in Switzerland, where it originated. Gruyère cheese is made from cow’s milk and is aged for several months to develop its distinctive taste. This cheese has a firm texture and melts beautifully, making it a popular choice as a pizza topping. Gruyère cheese adds a creamy and slightly sweet note to pizzas, enhancing their overall richness and depth of flavor. It is particularly loved in European cuisines, including Swiss, French, and Italian.
12. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a flavorful and protein-packed pizza topping that adds a savory twist to any pizza creation. The origin of grilled chicken as a pizza topping can be attributed to the popularity of barbecue-style pizzas, where the smoky and charred flavors of grilled chicken complement the other ingredients. Grilled chicken is enjoyed worldwide and is particularly favored in North American and Mediterranean cuisines. The tender and juicy chicken pieces, marinated or seasoned with herbs and spices, lend a satisfying texture and a subtle smoky taste to pizzas. Whether served as a standalone topping or combined with other ingredients, grilled chicken brings a delicious and satisfying element to pizza.
13. Ginger
Ginger is a versatile ingredient that adds a unique and zesty flavor to pizzas. It is derived from the root of the ginger plant and is widely used in Asian cuisines. Ginger has a warm and slightly spicy taste that can range from mild to intense, depending on its freshness and preparation. When used as a pizza topping, ginger can be sliced or grated and scattered over the other ingredients. It adds a subtle heat and a refreshing kick to the pizza, balancing out the flavors and providing a hint of aromatic complexity. Ginger is popular in various Asian-inspired pizza recipes and is enjoyed by those who appreciate bold and distinct flavors.
14. Genoa Salami
Genoa salami is a type of dry-cured sausage that is named after the Italian city of Genoa. It is made from ground pork, combined with spices and seasonings, and then fermented and air-dried. Genoa salami has a distinctive flavor that is savory, slightly spicy, and tangy. It is often thinly sliced and used as a pizza topping to add a bold and robust taste. Genoa salami is widely enjoyed in Italian cuisine and is a popular choice for pizza lovers who appreciate the rich and flavorful combination of cured meats and cheeses.
15. Green Onions
Green onions, also known as scallions or spring onions, are young onions harvested before they fully mature. They have a mild and slightly pungent flavor, similar to that of mature onions but less intense. Green onions are used as a pizza topping to add a fresh and aromatic element to the dish. They are commonly found in various cuisines worldwide, including Asian, Mexican, and Mediterranean. Green onions provide a subtle onion taste and a pleasant crunch when added to pizzas, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a visually appealing touch of green.
16. Granulated Garlic
Granulated garlic is a seasoning made from dried and finely ground garlic cloves. It is a popular pizza topping that adds a strong and distinct garlic flavor to the dish. While garlic is native to Central Asia, granulated garlic is used in various cuisines around the world. It is particularly popular in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, where it is often used as a seasoning for pizza, pasta, and other savory dishes. The granulated form of garlic ensures even distribution of flavor and is convenient to use as a pizza topping, providing a rich and aromatic taste to the overall combination of ingredients.
17. Ground Pork
Ground pork is a versatile and flavorful pizza topping that is enjoyed in different culinary traditions. While pork is consumed worldwide, ground pork is particularly popular in East Asian cuisines, such as Chinese and Thai cuisine. Ground pork is seasoned with various spices and sauces to create a savory and umami-rich flavor. When used as a pizza topping, ground pork adds a delicious meaty element to the dish. It pairs well with ingredients like onions, peppers, and mushrooms, providing a satisfying and hearty bite.
18. Gherkins
Gherkins are small, cucumber-like pickled vegetables that add a tangy and crunchy element to pizzas. They are popular in European cuisines, particularly in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, where they are used as a condiment or accompaniment to various dishes. Gherkins are made from small, firm cucumbers that are pickled in a vinegar solution along with herbs and spices. When used as a pizza topping, gherkins provide a refreshing and slightly sour flavor that contrasts well with other ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, and sauces.
19. Grana Padano Cheese
Grana Padano cheese is a hard Italian cheese that originated in the Po River Valley of Northern Italy. It is similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and is made from cow’s milk. Grana Padano cheese has a nutty and savory flavor profile with a slightly granular texture. It is aged for a minimum of 9 months, which intensifies its flavor and gives it a firm texture. Grana Padano cheese is a popular pizza topping in Italy and around the world. When grated or shredded over pizzas, it adds a rich and complex taste, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a delightful umami kick.
20. Green Beans
Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, are a versatile vegetable that can be used as a pizza topping. While they are not commonly seen as a traditional pizza topping, they can add a unique twist to the dish. Green beans are native to Central and South America but are now cultivated and enjoyed worldwide. They have a crisp texture and a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. When used on pizzas, green beans provide a fresh and vibrant element, adding a pop of color and a satisfying crunch. They can be blanched or lightly sautéed before being added as a topping, ensuring they retain their bright green color and firm texture.
21. Ground Lamb
Ground lamb is a flavorful and succulent pizza topping that is enjoyed in various cuisines around the world. Lamb is particularly popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where it is used in dishes such as kebabs and stews. Ground lamb is seasoned with herbs, spices, and sometimes onions and garlic to create a rich and savory flavor. When used as a pizza topping, ground lamb adds a distinctive taste and a juicy texture to the dish. It pairs well with ingredients like feta cheese, mint, and tomatoes, creating a delicious combination of flavors that is reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine.
22. Green Chilies
Green chilies are a popular pizza topping that adds a spicy and vibrant kick to the dish. They are native to South America and are widely used in Mexican, Tex-Mex, and Southwestern cuisines. Green chilies come in various heat levels, ranging from mild to hot, and are known for their distinctive flavor. When used on pizzas, they provide a zesty and slightly smoky taste that complements other ingredients. Green chilies are particularly popular in regions where spicy foods are enjoyed, such as the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico.
23. Gremolata
Gremolata is a traditional Italian herb condiment that adds a burst of freshness and flavor to pizzas. It is typically made by combining finely chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. Gremolata originated in the Lombardy region of Italy and is commonly used as a garnish or seasoning for various dishes. When sprinkled over pizzas, gremolata adds a vibrant and aromatic element, enhancing the overall taste profile. The combination of parsley, garlic, and lemon zest provides a balanced and tangy flavor that complements a wide range of toppings.
24. Greek Feta
Greek feta cheese is a tangy and salty cheese that originates from Greece. It is made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. Feta cheese has a crumbly texture and a rich, creamy flavor. It is widely used in Greek cuisine and is a popular choice for pizza toppings. When crumbled over pizzas, Greek feta cheese adds a distinctive and robust taste that pairs well with other Mediterranean ingredients like olives, tomatoes, and oregano. Feta cheese is loved and enjoyed in Greece and is also popular in other parts of the world where Mediterranean flavors are appreciated.
25. Garbanzo
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are a versatile legume widely used in various cuisines around the world. They have a nutty flavor and a firm texture. Garbanzo beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in the Middle East. They are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, including dishes like hummus and falafel. While not a traditional pizza topping, garbanzo beans can be used as a creative and nutritious addition to pizzas, providing a subtle earthy taste and a satisfying bite.
26. Grapefruit
Grapefruit, a citrus fruit with a tangy and slightly bitter taste, may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind for pizza toppings, but it can offer a unique and refreshing twist. Grapefruit is believed to have originated in the Caribbean, and it is now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The juicy segments of grapefruit can add a burst of citrusy flavor to pizzas, balancing out rich and savory ingredients. While not as common as other toppings, grapefruit can be a delightful addition to certain pizza styles, especially those with a focus on creative and unconventional flavor combinations.
27. Grana Padano
Grana Padano, a hard Italian cheese known for its crumbly texture and rich, nutty flavor, shares similarities with Parmigiano-Reggiano and is often considered a close cousin. Originating in Northern Italy, specifically the regions of Lombardy, Piedmont, and Emilia-Romagna, Grana Padano cheese is made from cow’s milk and undergoes a lengthy aging process, typically lasting a minimum of nine months. This extended aging period allows the cheese to develop its distinct taste and texture. Grana Padano is commonly grated or shaved over pizzas, imparting a delightful salty and savory profile to the dish. Widely used in Italian cuisine, this cheese is highly regarded for its depth of flavor and its ability to enhance the overall taste of pizzas and various other dishes. It is worth noting that Grana Padano holds the designation of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), signifying its authenticity and adherence to strict production standards.
28. Guava
Guava, also known as guayaba, is a tropical fruit that grows in many parts of the world, including Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. It has a sweet and fragrant flavor, reminiscent of a combination of pear and strawberry. Guava can be used as a unique and exotic pizza topping, particularly in regions where it is abundant. When used on pizzas, guayaba provides a sweet and tropical twist, creating a delightful contrast with savory or tangy ingredients. While not as common as traditional pizza toppings, guayaba can offer a refreshing and unexpected flavor experience for those seeking adventurous pizza creations.
29. Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are small, bite-sized tomatoes that are known for their sweet and juicy flavor. They are a popular pizza topping that adds a burst of freshness to each bite. These tomatoes are particularly popular in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, where they are used in various dishes, including pizzas. Their vibrant color and natural sweetness make them a visually appealing and delicious addition to pizzas, providing a pleasant contrast to other savory ingredients.
30. Grilled Zucchini
Grilled zucchini is a flavorful and versatile pizza topping that originates from Mediterranean cuisine. Zucchini, a summer squash, is sliced and then grilled to bring out its natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor. The origins of zucchini can be traced back to Central and South America, but it became popular in Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece. Grilled zucchini adds a unique texture and a mild, earthy taste to pizzas. It pairs well with a variety of other toppings and brings a touch of freshness and lightness to the overall pizza experience.
31. Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant is a delicious and versatile pizza topping that originates from the Mediterranean region. Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is native to Asia and was introduced to the Mediterranean region centuries ago. When grilled, eggplant develops a smoky and tender texture, making it an excellent addition to pizzas. It is particularly popular in Italian and Middle Eastern cuisines, where it is often marinated in olive oil and herbs before grilling. Grilled eggplant adds a savory and earthy flavor to pizzas, complementing other toppings such as cheese, tomatoes, and herbs.
32. Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a seafood topping that adds a delightful taste of the ocean to pizzas. Shrimp is widely enjoyed around the world, and its popularity as a pizza topping can be found in various coastal regions. Grilled shrimp is especially popular in Mediterranean and American cuisines, where it is often seasoned with herbs, spices, and a squeeze of lemon before being cooked on the grill. The tender and succulent shrimp pairs well with other ingredients, such as garlic, tomatoes, and cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying pizza experience.
