This veggie pizza is a colorful treat topped with fresh bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. It’s a delicious way to get your veggies in while enjoying a classic favorite.
I love how each slice is bursting with flavors and crunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies in the fridge. Who needs delivery when you can whip this up easily at home?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Homemade dough is great, but store-bought works too. You can even use a pre-made crust if you’re short on time. Cauliflower crust is a great gluten-free alternative!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Both work well in this recipe!
Vegetables: Mix and match your favorite veggies! If broccoli isn’t your thing, try zucchini or artichokes instead. Spinach adds freshness, but kale is a hearty swap.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tang. If unavailable, you could replace them with roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes for a different flavor.
How Can I Get My Pizza Dough Just Right?
Stretching pizza dough can be tricky. Here are some tips to work with it easily:
- Let the dough rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes; this makes it easier to stretch.
- Use your hands instead of a rolling pin for a more rustic shape. Push from the center outward while turning the dough.
- If it resists stretching, let it relax for a few more minutes before trying again.
How Can I Make My Veggies Extra Flavorful?
Getting the most flavor from your veggies is key. Here are some tips:
- Toss broccoli and spinach with olive oil and minced garlic as you prep. This amps up the flavor.
- Sautéing the mushrooms and bell peppers for a few minutes before adding them as toppings can enhance their taste and sweetness.
Now you’re ready to create a delicious veggie pizza that fits your tastes perfectly! Enjoy!
How to Make Veggie Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pizza Dough: 1 ball (about 12 inches in diameter)
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Sauce: 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (mixed colors), halved
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets, small
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves or baby kale
- Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Topping: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Estimated Time to Prepare:
This veggie pizza will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, so plan for about 25 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it heats up nicely.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 12 inches wide. Don’t worry if it’s not a perfect circle! Once it’s rolled, carefully transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a small bowl, combine the broccoli florets and spinach leaves with the olive oil and minced garlic. Toss well to coat, and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread your choice of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, covering it well.
5. Add Toppings:
Now it’s time for the fun part—adding toppings! Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, seasoned broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, and bell pepper slices all over the cheese. Don’t forget the fresh spinach leaves!
6. Season and Bake:
Sprinkle the dried oregano and a little more salt and pepper on top for extra flavor. Transfer your pizza to the oven carefully (onto the pizza stone if you’re using one).
7. Bake:
Bake your pizza for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it: you’re looking for a golden crust and bubbly, melted cheese. It’ll smell amazing as it cooks!
8. Serve:
Once it’s ready, remove your pizza from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Slice it up and enjoy your colorful, tasty veggie pizza fresh from the oven!
Bon appétit! Enjoy every delicious bite of your veggie pizza bursting with fresh garden flavors!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just follow the instructions on the package for best results. You can also use pre-made crusts for even quicker preparation!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you’re looking to switch up the cheese, try using provolone or gouda for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast will work nicely!
Can I Add More Vegetables? What Are Some Good Options?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even artichokes are fantastic choices. Just be mindful not to overload it, as too much moisture can make the crust soggy!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it for a quick fix!
