This week, instead of a Throwback Thursday post, I wanted to recap for you all the 9th Annual Cavit Gourmet Pizza Classic!  The cook-off was held this afternoon in New York City.

The contest was held at the Tasting Table headquarters in SoHo.

White wine at 10 am?  Why not!

The sponsor set up a beautiful dining table for the spectators while the contestants were hard at work in the test kitchen.

There were three finalists competing for the grand prize of a trip to Italy!  I was there to cheer on our very own Naylet LaRochelle.  She was ready to go head to head against two local contestants – John Lombardi from Hoboken, NJ and Mark Ludden from Astoria, NY.

Mark was up first to present his “Pigs ‘n Heaven Pizza” to the judges.  It is always nerve-wracking when they are right there in front of you and everyone hears their feedback right away.

Next up was Naylet!  She eloquently presented her “Taleggio and Fennel Pizza with Applenay-Bacon Compote” and pointed out how well it pairs with the Cavit Chardonnay.

Finally, John Lombardi served up slices of his “Goat Cheese and Arugula Appetizer Pizza with Balsamic Pepproncini Vinaigrette.”  Everyone was on pins and needles as the judging panel deliberated.

And the winner is… John Lombardi!  He seemed a bit shocked and overwhelmed by the big win.  This was the first contest he has ever entered and can’t wait to take his girlfriend on the trip of a lifetime to Italy.  Congratulations John!

Everyone in attendance was lucky enough to try all three pizzas and wine pairings.  I have to say, Naylet’s entry was absolutely outstanding!  I loved the creativity in her recipe.  The judges commented on her excellent execution of the dish as well as bold choice to use taleggio cheese.  We are all so proud of you Naylet!

Please follow the link below to view or print the recipe:

Goat Cheese and Arugula Pizza with Balsamic Pepperoncini Vinaigrette

Taleggio and Fennel Pizza with Applenay-Bacon Compote

Pigs ‘n Heaven Pizza