Veggie Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie pizza is not only a delicious way to enjoy pizza without the meat, but it’s also a fantastic way to pack in a variety of vegetables. The crispy crust and cheesy topping make it irresistible, while the array of colorful veggies add a healthy touch without compromising on flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily modify with your favorite vegetables, sauces, and cheeses. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be enjoyed by anyone, whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty snack.

Ingredients

For the pizza crust:

• 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice)

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced

• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh spinach (optional)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking.

2. Prepare the crust: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the edges with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the crust for extra flavor.

3. Add the sauce: Spread an even layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

4. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. You can also add a bit of Parmesan or your favorite cheese blend for extra flavor.

5. Add the veggies: Top the cheese with the sliced red onion, bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, olives (if using), and spinach. Be generous with the veggies to ensure each slice is loaded with flavor.

6. Season: Sprinkle the pizza with dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

7. Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

8. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Slice it up and serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4 servings (depending on portion size)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 22-25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: You can swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or provolone. Adding a mix of cheeses will give the pizza a richer, more complex flavor.

• Spicy Veggie Pizza: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Roasted Veggies: For a more intense flavor, roast the vegetables separately before adding them to the pizza. This will bring out their natural sweetness and make them even more savory.

• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese or simply skip the cheese for a light vegan pizza. You can also use a cashew cream sauce as the base for extra richness.

• Additional Veggies: Feel free to get creative with your veggie selection! Zucchini, broccoli, artichokes, or even roasted butternut squash are great additions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover veggie pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave slices, but the crust may not stay as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pizza dough?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough if you prefer. Many stores sell pre-made gluten-free dough, or you can make your own. The cooking time will remain the same.

2. Can I make the crust from scratch?

Yes! You can easily make your own pizza dough using flour, yeast, olive oil, and water. Let it rise for about an hour before rolling it out.

3. What are some good veggie toppings for pizza?

Great veggie toppings for pizza include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, zucchini, olives, and artichokes. Feel free to add or swap veggies based on your preferences.

4. Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, store-bought pizza or marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer a more personalized sauce, you can mix canned tomatoes with garlic, basil, and olive oil for a homemade version.

5. Can I freeze leftover veggie pizza?

Yes, you can freeze leftover veggie pizza. Place slices on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

6. How do I get a crispy crust?

For a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the pizza dough on it. This helps cook the bottom of the pizza quickly and evenly.

7. Can I make veggie pizza ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. Just bake it as you normally would when you’re ready to serve.

8. Can I make a thin crust veggie pizza?

Yes, simply roll out the dough thinner to make a crispier, thinner crust. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

9. Can I add meat to this pizza?

Absolutely! If you want to add meat, you can top your veggie pizza with cooked or chicken,  mixed topping.

10. How can I make this pizza spicier?

You can add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy olive oil on top before or after baking for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Veggie pizza is a delicious, versatile dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. The combination of a crispy crust, melty cheese, and fresh, vibrant vegetables makes this pizza an irresistible option for any pizza lover. Whether you’re serving it at a party, for a weeknight dinner, or simply for a fun weekend meal, veggie pizza will satisfy both your cravings and your desire for a healthier alternative. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and feel free to experiment with the endless veggie combinations!

---

Print