The Pizza Hut Pesto Margherita Pizza offers a light yet flavorful take on a classic Italian favorite. Served on a Large Tavern-Cut Crust, this pizza is cut into 16 thin, crispy square slices. It features a fresh tomato sauce base, melted mozzarella cheese, ripe tomato slices, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of rich pesto sauce for a burst of herbal flavor. With only 55 calories per slice, it’s a perfect option for those seeking a lighter pizza without sacrificing taste.
What size is the Pesto Margherita Pizza available in?
The Pesto Margherita Pizza is offered as a Large Tavern-Cut Pizza, which is sliced into 16 square-shaped pieces rather than traditional wedges. This serving style is perfect for sharing at family gatherings, parties, or casual dinners with friends because it allows everyone to grab a smaller portion. The Tavern-Cut style also makes it easy to pair with other menu items without feeling overly full, and it ensures that the thin, crispy crust holds up well under the fresh toppings.
Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, Pizza Hut allows full customization of the Pesto Margherita Pizza. You can add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, onions, or roasted red peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. If you prefer more protein, you can add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or even bacon for a heartier meal. On the other hand, if you want to make it lighter, you can reduce the cheese or request a lighter amount of pesto. Just keep in mind that customization may affect the nutritional information and overall price.
What is the Tavern-Cut crust like?
The Tavern-Cut crust is a thin, crispy style of pizza crust that is baked to a golden finish and cut into small, square slices. It has a light, airy bite in the center with crisp edges, allowing the freshness of the toppings to shine. This crust style originated in Midwest taverns, where pizzas were served as snacks alongside drinks, making the smaller slices perfect for sharing. The thin base also means you get more crunch and less dough in each bite.
Does it contain MSG?
No, the Pesto Margherita Pizza does not contain added monosodium glutamate (MSG). However, certain ingredients—such as mozzarella cheese and parmesan in the pesto—contain naturally occurring glutamates, which contribute to the savory umami flavor. These natural glutamates are found in many common foods and are not the same as added MSG. If you have dietary concerns, you can always request a detailed ingredient list from your local Pizza Hut.
How much protein is in a slice?
Each slice of the Large Tavern-Cut Pesto Margherita Pizza contains about 3 grams of protein, coming mainly from the mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese in the pesto sauce. Because the slices are small and light, protein content is moderate per piece, but eating several slices can increase your intake. If you want a higher protein version, adding grilled chicken or extra cheese is a great option.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, you can make the Pesto Margherita Pizza vegan-friendly by removing all cheese and requesting a dairy-free pesto alternative—if your location offers it. Some Pizza Hut locations may allow you to bring your own vegan cheese or pesto substitute, but this varies by store. Without cheese, the pizza will still feature fresh tomato slices, basil, and tomato sauce for a flavorful plant-based option.
Is there a gluten-free version available?
Currently, the Pesto Margherita Pizza is not offered with a certified gluten-free crust at most Pizza Hut locations. While some branches carry Udi’s® gluten-free crust, it may only be available for specific pizza types, and even then, the shared kitchen environment means there’s a risk of cross-contact. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with Celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.
Is the pesto sauce made fresh?
The pesto used on the Pesto Margherita Pizza is made with a blend of fresh basil, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts. This creates a rich, aromatic sauce that adds a burst of herbal freshness to every bite. The recipe is designed to balance the creaminess of the cheese with the tang of tomato sauce and the sweetness of fresh tomato slices.
What is the sodium content?
Each slice contains about 125 milligrams of sodium, which is relatively low compared to other pizzas. The sodium comes mainly from the cheese, tomato sauce, and the parmesan in the pesto. If you’re watching your salt intake, this pizza can be a lighter option—though adding more cheese or meats will increase sodium levels.
Can I order it half-and-half with another pizza?
Yes, Pizza Hut allows you to order the Pesto Margherita Pizza half-and-half with another variety, as long as both pizzas share the same crust size and style. This is a great way to combine a lighter, veggie-forward pizza with a more indulgent one, satisfying different tastes at the same table. Pricing is generally based on the more expensive half, and the nutritional profile will vary depending on your chosen pairing.
