Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza

Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza Recipe - Vegetarian Pizza from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza is a delicious and satisfying pizza recipe that is perfect for those looking for a meat-free alternative to the classic meat lovers pizza. This recipe features a flavorful tomato sauce, soy mozzarella cheese, and a variety of soy-based meat substitutes that mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat toppings.

History

The Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza recipe was created as a vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternative to the popular meat lovers pizza. By using soy-based meat substitutes, this recipe provides a tasty and satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

1 x 12- to 14-inch pizza crust
8 oz (227 g) shredded soy mozzarella

Simple seasoned tomato sauce

1 cup commercial tomato sauce
1 tbsp italian seasoning
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Meat topping

1 tbsp olive oil
4 oz (113 g) soy "ground beef"
2 soy "sausage" links, sliced into 0.5-inch rounds
0.25 cup chopped onion
12 slices soy "pepperoni"
6 slices soy "canadian bacon"

How to prepare

Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
Prebake fresh pizza crust, if using, for 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from oven, and set aside to cool slightly.

Simple seasoned tomato sauce

Combine tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.

Meat topping

Heat 1 tsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sauté ground beef and sausage links for about 3 minutes, or until hot and slightly crispy.
Using a spatula, remove the meat from the pan, add the remaining 2 tsp oil to the skillet, and sauté onions for 3 minutes, or until translucent.
Add the simple seasoned tomato sauce and stir.
Remove from heat.

Assembly

Spread the sauce mixture over the pizza crust.
Top with ground beef, sausage, cheese, pepperoni, and Canadian bacon slices.
Bake for 13 to 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven and serve.

Variations

Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, to the pizza toppings.
Experiment with different types of soy-based meat substitutes, such as soy chorizo or soy chicken strips.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Prebaking the pizza crust before adding the toppings helps ensure that the crust will be crispy and fully cooked.

- Sautéing the soy-based meat substitutes before adding them to the pizza helps enhance their flavor and texture.

- Be sure to evenly distribute the toppings on the pizza to ensure that each slice is loaded with delicious flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Prebake the pizza crust before adding the toppings to ensure a crispy crust.

- Sauté the soy-based meat substitutes before adding them to the pizza for added flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use your favorite type of cheese in place of soy mozzarella.

- Substitute the soy-based meat substitutes with your preferred meat alternative, such as seitan or tempeh.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tomato sauce and sauté the meat substitutes ahead of time to save time when assembling the pizza.

Presentation Ideas

Top the pizza with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza with a light and refreshing beverage, such as a sparkling water or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Contains soy and wheat.

Summary

This Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is a nutritious and delicious option for those looking for a meat-free pizza alternative.

Summary

Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza is a delicious and satisfying pizza recipe that is perfect for those looking for a meat-free alternative to the classic meat lovers pizza. With a flavorful tomato sauce, soy mozzarella cheese, and a variety of soy-based meat substitutes, this pizza is sure to please even the most dedicated meat lovers.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. I remember it clearly, as if it were just yesterday. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who lived just down the street from me. Mrs. Jenkins was known in our neighborhood for her delicious homemade pizzas, and I was always eager to learn from her.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the tantalizing aroma of baking bread and melting cheese. Mrs. Jenkins greeted me with a warm smile and ushered me over to the kitchen table, where she had already laid out all the ingredients for her famous Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza.

I watched in awe as she effortlessly kneaded the dough and spread it out on a greased baking sheet. Then, she began to layer on the toppings – sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, chopped onions, and black olives. I couldn't believe how colorful and appetizing it looked.

As the pizza baked in the oven, Mrs. Jenkins told me the story behind this unique recipe. She explained that she had come up with it years ago when she was trying to find a way to incorporate more vegetables into her family's diet. She had experimented with different combinations of vegetables and seasonings until she had perfected this Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza.

When the timer dinged, signaling that the pizza was ready, Mrs. Jenkins pulled it out of the oven and cut it into slices. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste it. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The combination of the fresh vegetables, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese was perfection.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged Mrs. Jenkins to teach me how to make the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza, and she graciously agreed. She showed me step by step how to prepare the dough, layer on the toppings, and bake it to perfection. I took notes diligently, making sure to capture every detail of the recipe.

As I made the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza in my own kitchen for the first time, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The aroma of the baking pizza filled the room, and I couldn't help but smile. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza countless times for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. Each time, it never fails to impress, and I always receive compliments on how delicious and flavorful it is.

I have passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who have also fallen in love with it. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition of making this special pizza, knowing that it all started with a chance encounter with Mrs. Jenkins on that hot summer day.

So, whenever I make the Meat 'less' Lovers Pizza now, I think back to that happy memory of discovering the recipe for the first time. It reminds me of the joy of learning something new, the pleasure of creating something delicious, and the bond that food can create between friends. And for that, I am forever grateful.