Mexican Pizza

Mexican Pizza Recipe

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Mexican Pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a pizza. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on pizza night.

History

The origins of Mexican Pizza are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the United States as a fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines. This dish has become popular in many Mexican-American households and is now a staple on the menu of many Mexican restaurants.

Ingredients

1 x 8-inch low-carb whole grain tortilla
canola oil (in a misting bottle)
0.25 cup low-fat refried beans
1 tbsp warm water
0.25 cup plus 1 tbsp fresh store-bought salsa (drained)
0.25 cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese

How to prepare

Place an 8 to 10-inch skillet over medium heat until it is hot.
Lightly spray each side of the tortilla with 1 tsp of canola oil in total.
Place the tortilla in the hot pan and cook for 30 seconds to one minute, or until it is lightly browned.
Turn the tortilla over and repeat the previous step.
Remove the tortilla from the pan and let it cool.
Combine the refried beans and water, and mix until the mixture is smooth.
Use a rubber or plastic spatula to spread the bean paste over the tortilla.
Be careful to leave 0.25 to 0.5 inches of the tortilla uncovered at the outer edge.
Gently spread the salsa evenly over the bean paste, and sprinkle it with low-fat mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the tortilla to a baking sheet and place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for five minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Variations

Add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for a protein boost.
Top with sliced jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use a whole wheat tortilla for added fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a low-carb tortilla for a healthier option.

- Draining the salsa before adding it to the pizza will prevent it from becoming too soggy.

- Be sure to leave a small border around the edge of the tortilla when spreading the bean paste to prevent it from spilling over during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Pizza can be served with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pizza in the oven ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the tortilla becomes crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular refried beans if low-fat is not available.

- Substitute cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the bean paste and salsa ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pizza.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Mexican Pizza with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Pizza pairs well with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Pizza contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Pizza contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Pizza contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Pizza contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Pizza is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (tortilla).

Summary

Mexican Pizza is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mexican Pizza is a tasty and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of pizza. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Mexican Pizza. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria has always been a fantastic cook, and she loves to share her recipes with me. As we chatted over a cup of coffee, she suddenly pulled out a worn, stained piece of paper from her recipe box and handed it to me with a mischievous smile.

"Here, try this recipe for Mexican Pizza. It's a family favorite," Maria said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I glanced down at the faded recipe card and felt a surge of curiosity. I had never made pizza with a Mexican twist before, and I was eager to give it a try. With Maria's guidance, I set to work assembling the ingredients - a homemade pizza crust, spicy tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a colorful array of toppings like bell peppers, onions, and jalapenos.

As I rolled out the dough and spread on the sauce, I could already smell the tantalizing aroma of the spices mingling together. The sizzle of the beef cooking in the skillet and the bubbling cheese in the oven filled the kitchen with a delicious scent that made my stomach rumble in anticipation.

After carefully layering on the toppings and sliding the pizza into the oven, Maria and I sat back and chatted about our families, our memories, and our shared love of cooking. As the pizza baked to golden perfection, the flavors melding together in a mouthwatering symphony, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This recipe was not just about food; it was about friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

When the timer finally dinged, I eagerly pulled the steaming hot pizza out of the oven. The cheese was bubbly and gooey, the crust was perfectly crisp, and the toppings were vibrant and flavorful. Maria and I wasted no time in slicing it up and digging in, savoring each delicious bite.

The combination of savory beef, zesty sauce, crunchy vegetables, and melty cheese was a revelation. The flavors danced on my taste buds, each bite a symphony of textures and tastes that left me wanting more. As we finished off the last slice, Maria and I both knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Mexican Pizza countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have added my own spin on the toppings, experimented with different cheeses, and even tried making a vegetarian version with beans and corn.

But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the recipe remains the same - a delightful blend of Mexican flavors and classic pizza goodness that never fails to delight. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I turn to when I want to impress guests, comfort a friend, or simply treat myself to a delicious meal.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, I can't help but smile. That recipe for Mexican Pizza has brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years, and I am grateful to have stumbled upon it in the company of a dear friend who shares my passion for good food and good company.

So if you ever find yourself craving a unique and flavorful twist on a classic favorite, I urge you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll create your own cherished memories and traditions around this delicious dish, just like I have. Happy cooking!