Whether you’re a fan of wild flavors or warm and gooey cheeses, we’ve got something special in store for you with these pizza toppings that start with the letter ‘W’.
1. Walnuts
Walnuts are a delicious and nutritious pizza topping that adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to any pizza. Originating from the ancient Persia region, walnuts have been enjoyed for centuries and are now popular worldwide. They are known for their rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your pizza. Whether used as a topping or incorporated into a pesto or sauce, walnuts add depth and texture to the pizza, creating a unique and flavorful experience.
2. Watercress
Watercress is a leafy green vegetable that is often used as a pizza topping. With its vibrant green color and peppery taste, watercress adds a refreshing and slightly bitter flavor to the pizza. Originating from Europe and Asia, watercress is popular in various cuisines around the world. It is highly nutritious, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Its crisp texture and bold flavor make it an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of freshness and vibrancy to their pizza.
3. White truffle oil
White truffle oil is a luxurious and aromatic pizza topping that originates from Italy. It is made by infusing olive oil with the essence of white truffles, a rare and highly prized mushroom species found primarily in Italy. The distinctive and intense flavor of white truffle oil adds a gourmet touch to pizzas, elevating the taste and aroma. It is particularly popular in Italian cuisine and is often drizzled over pizzas as a finishing touch to enhance the overall experience with its earthy, garlicky, and musky notes.
4. Whipped cream
Whipped cream may seem like an unconventional pizza topping, but it can be a delightful addition to certain dessert pizzas. It is commonly used as a topping for sweet pizzas that feature fruit, chocolate, or other dessert-like flavors. The origins of whipped cream can be traced back to ancient civilizations, and it has since become a popular topping in many cultures around the world. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with its sweet and creamy taste, can provide a luscious and indulgent element to dessert pizzas, creating a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Whiskey-infused caramelized onions
Whiskey-infused caramelized onions are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that bring a unique twist to pizzas. Caramelized onions are slowly cooked in a pan with butter or oil until they become soft, sweet, and golden brown. When infused with whiskey, they acquire an additional layer of complexity and a subtle hint of smokiness. While caramelized onions are a versatile topping found in various cuisines, the addition of whiskey infusion adds a distinct richness to the flavor profile. As for its popularity on pizzas, it can be found in certain gourmet and artisanal pizzerias that aim to offer innovative flavor combinations.
6. White anchovies
White anchovies, also known as boquerones, are a traditional ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and Italy. These anchovies are typically marinated in vinegar or a citric acid solution, which gives them a tangy and slightly acidic taste. Unlike their salt-cured counterparts, white anchovies have a milder flavor and a tender texture. On pizzas, they add a burst of umami and a subtle brininess that pairs well with other toppings. While their popularity may vary, white anchovies are cherished by those who appreciate the flavors of the Mediterranean and are commonly used in Neapolitan-style pizzas.
7. White asparagus
White asparagus is a unique and prized vegetable that has a delicate flavor and a tender texture. Unlike green asparagus, white asparagus is grown in the absence of sunlight, which prevents it from developing chlorophyll and gives it a pale color. It has a milder and slightly sweeter taste compared to its green counterpart. White asparagus is particularly popular in European cuisines, notably in Germany, France, and the Netherlands. As a pizza topping, it brings a subtle earthy flavor and a touch of elegance to the dish. While not as widely used as other toppings, white asparagus can be found in specialty pizzerias that offer gourmet or seasonal pizza creations.
8. White cheddar cheese
White cheddar cheese is a popular choice for pizza toppings, known for its smooth and creamy texture and a slightly sharp flavor. It is made from cow’s milk and undergoes a process of aging, which contributes to its distinct taste. White cheddar cheese is widely enjoyed in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. Its versatility and meltability make it an excellent cheese option for pizzas, as it adds richness and a pleasant tang. Whether used as the main cheese or combined with other varieties, white cheddar cheese brings a comforting and familiar taste to pizza creations.
9. White sauce
White sauce, also known as béchamel sauce, is a creamy and savory sauce made from a roux of butter and flour, combined with milk or cream. It is a staple in French cuisine and serves as the base for many dishes. When used as a pizza topping, white sauce adds a rich and velvety texture to the pizza, complementing other ingredients. The popularity of white sauce on pizzas can be seen in various regions, especially in gourmet and artisanal pizzerias that offer a wide range of sauce options beyond the traditional tomato-based sauce.
10. Whole grain mustard
Whole grain mustard is a condiment made from mustard seeds that have been partially ground, resulting in a coarse texture. It is known for its pungent and tangy flavor profile, with a combination of spiciness and acidity. Whole grain mustard adds a bold and distinctive taste to pizzas, providing a balance of heat and acidity. While mustard as a pizza topping may not be as widespread as other ingredients, it can be found in certain regional pizza styles or as a creative topping choice in gourmet pizzas. Its popularity may vary depending on local culinary preferences.
11. Wild boar sausage
Wild boar sausage is a flavorful and distinctive type of sausage made from the meat of wild boars. It offers a rich and slightly gamey taste that sets it apart from traditional pork sausage. Wild boar sausage is popular in European cuisines, particularly in regions where hunting is common. As a pizza topping, it brings a unique and robust flavor to the dish, adding depth and complexity. While its popularity may be more prevalent in certain European countries, wild boar sausage can be found in specialty pizzerias that focus on showcasing unique and artisanal ingredients.
12. Wild rice
Wild rice is a type of grain that is native to North America, particularly the Great Lakes region. It is harvested from aquatic grasses and has a distinct nutty flavor and chewy texture. Although wild rice is not commonly used as a pizza topping, its versatility and unique taste make it an interesting addition to certain pizza creations. It can add a pleasant earthiness and depth to the overall flavor profile of the pizza. While its popularity as a pizza topping may be limited, wild rice is widely enjoyed in various traditional and modern North American dishes.
13. Winter squash
Winter squash refers to a group of squash varieties that are harvested in the late summer and early fall, then stored and consumed during the winter months. Examples of winter squash include butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash. They have a firm texture, sweet flavor, and vibrant colors. Winter squash can be used as a pizza topping by roasting or sautéing it beforehand to enhance its natural sweetness and soften its texture. This topping is particularly popular during the autumn and winter seasons when squash is abundant and at its peak freshness. It adds a comforting and seasonal element to pizzas, often complemented by other ingredients like cheese, herbs, or caramelized onions.
14. Wood-fired roasted vegetables
Wood-fired roasted vegetables refer to a variety of vegetables that are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a smoky and charred flavor. This cooking method enhances the natural sweetness and adds depth to the vegetables. The specific vegetables used can vary but commonly include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, and tomatoes. Wood-fired roasted vegetables are a popular topping choice in artisanal and Neapolitan-style pizzas, where the smoky notes and caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the soft and chewy crust. This topping is particularly favored in Italy and has gained popularity worldwide due to the rise of wood-fired pizza ovens and the appreciation for rustic flavors and cooking techniques.
15. Wurst
Wurst is a German term that encompasses various types of sausages. It is a popular pizza topping in Germany, where sausages hold great cultural significance. Different regions in Germany have their own unique types of wurst, such as bratwurst, currywurst, or bockwurst, each with distinct flavors and seasonings. When used as a pizza topping, wurst adds a savory and hearty element to the pizza, providing a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture. Its popularity extends beyond Germany, and wurst-topped pizzas can also be found in regions with German culinary influences or in pizzerias that offer international flavor profiles.
16. Wakame seaweed
Wakame seaweed is a type of edible seaweed commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It is known for its delicate flavor and slightly sweet taste. While not traditionally a pizza topping, wakame seaweed can be creatively incorporated into seafood or Asian-inspired pizzas to add a unique umami flavor and a touch of oceanic freshness. Its popularity as a pizza topping is more prevalent in Japan and in regions where Japanese cuisine is celebrated. In these places, the combination of wakame seaweed with other ingredients like seafood, soy sauce, or sesame oil creates a distinct fusion of flavors that appeals to sushi and seafood enthusiasts.
17. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is a young grass from the wheat plant that is harvested before it fully matures. It is typically juiced or consumed as a dietary supplement due to its high nutritional content. While not a traditional pizza topping, wheatgrass can be used as a garnish or added as a finishing touch to pizzas for a boost of freshness and a vibrant green color. It is known for its earthy taste and is often associated with health-conscious diets. The popularity of wheatgrass as a pizza topping may be more prevalent in wellness-focused communities or establishments that cater to alternative and nutritious ingredients.
18. Wild game meat
Wild game meat refers to the meat of animals that are hunted in their natural habitats. It includes a variety of game animals such as deer, elk, boar, or rabbit. The use of wild game meat as a pizza topping can vary depending on regional hunting practices and culinary traditions. In some regions, especially those with a strong hunting culture, wild game meat can be a popular and sought-after pizza topping. Its availability and popularity may also depend on local regulations and the preferences of consumers who appreciate the unique flavors and lean characteristics of wild game meat. When used as a pizza topping, it adds a distinct and robust flavor that sets it apart from more common meat options.
19. White onions
White onions are a versatile and widely used ingredient in various cuisines around the world. They are characterized by their white flesh and milder flavor compared to other onion varieties. White onions can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, adding a crisp and slightly sweet taste to dishes. As a pizza topping, they bring a subtle onion flavor and a pleasant crunch. While their origin is not specific to a particular region, white onions are commonly used in Mediterranean, Mexican, and American cuisines. Their popularity as a pizza topping extends to many countries where pizzas are enjoyed.
20. Watermelon radish
Watermelon radish, also known as beauty heart radish, is a type of radish with a vibrant, pinkish-red interior that resembles the colors of a watermelon. It has a mild and slightly peppery flavor that adds a refreshing and crisp element to pizzas. While watermelon radish is not widely used as a pizza topping, it can be sliced thinly and placed on top of pizzas as a garnish or a fresh ingredient. Its colorful appearance makes it visually appealing, and its subtle spiciness complements other toppings and sauces. The popularity of watermelon radish as a pizza topping may vary depending on regional preferences and the availability of this particular radish variety.
