Vegetarian Pizza

Vegetarian Pizza Recipe from Italy | Bread Dough, Zucchini, & more

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vegetarian pizza is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza, perfect for those looking to enjoy a meatless meal. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful cheeses, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal.

History

Pizza has been a popular dish for centuries, originating in Italy and quickly spreading around the world. Vegetarian pizza became popular as a healthier alternative to traditional meat-topped pizzas, offering a variety of fresh vegetables and cheeses as toppings.

Ingredients

1 x 16 oz (454 g) loaf of frozen whole wheat bread dough, thawed
1 small zucchini, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 small yellow summer squash, chopped (about 1 cup)
0.25 tsp of crushed red pepper
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp of olive oil or cooking oil
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz (227 g))
2 medium red and/or yellow tomatoes, thinly sliced
2 tbsp of grated parmesan or romano cheese

How to prepare

On a lightly floured surface, roll the bread dough into a 14-inch circle.
Transfer the dough to a greased 13-inch pizza pan.
Build up the edges slightly and prick the dough generously with a fork.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until it turns light brown.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the zucchini, summer squash, crushed red pepper, and garlic in hot oil for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are almost tender. Drain any excess oil.
Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese over the hot crust.
Arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern on top of the cheese.
Top with the zucchini mixture.
Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan or Romano cheese.
Bake for about 12 minutes more or until the cheese melts and the pizza is heated through.

Variations

Feel free to customize your vegetarian pizza with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the frozen bread dough according to package instructions for best results.

- Be sure to prick the dough with a fork before baking to prevent it from puffing up too much.

- Cooking the vegetables in oil before adding them to the pizza helps to enhance their flavors.

- Be creative with your toppings - feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or cheeses to customize your pizza.

Serving Suggestions

Serve vegetarian pizza with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pizza in the oven ensures that the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted to perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of cheese or vegetables that you prefer in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and vegetable mixture ahead of time and assemble the pizza just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve vegetarian pizza on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Vegetarian pizza pairs well with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover vegetarian pizza can be stored 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

Each serving of vegetarian pizza contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of vegetarian pizza contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of vegetarian pizza contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of vegetarian pizza contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Vegetarian pizza is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and dairy allergens.

Summary

Vegetarian pizza is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vegetarian pizza is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the fresh flavors of vegetables and cheese in every bite of this tasty pizza!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Vegetarian Pizza. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen for a refreshing glass of lemonade.

As we sat at her kitchen table, Mrs. Jenkins pulled out a worn and well-loved recipe book from her bottom drawer. She flipped through the pages with a smile on her face, reminiscing about the memories attached to each recipe. When she landed on the page for Vegetarian Pizza, her eyes lit up with excitement.

"This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations," she said, her voice filled with pride. "It's a favorite among both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Would you like me to show you how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, curious to learn the secret behind this beloved recipe. Mrs. Jenkins walked me through each step, explaining the importance of fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together. As we worked together in the kitchen, I soaked up every detail, eager to recreate the magic of this Vegetarian Pizza in my own home.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own little twists and variations to suit my family's tastes. I would often make this pizza for Sunday dinners, where my children and grandchildren would eagerly gather around the table, their eyes lighting up at the sight and smell of the bubbling cheese and fragrant vegetables.

As I continued to make this recipe, I began to experiment with different ingredients, incorporating new flavors and textures to create a pizza that was truly my own. I would often swap out the traditional tomato sauce for a homemade pesto or a creamy garlic sauce. I would pile on fresh vegetables from my garden, adding a burst of color and nutrition to each slice.

Through trial and error, I discovered the perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a Vegetarian Pizza that was both hearty and satisfying. The crispy crust would give way to a gooey layer of melted cheese, while the vegetables would add a pop of freshness and crunch. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a celebration of the bountiful harvest of the season.

As my reputation as a skilled cook spread throughout the neighborhood, I began to receive requests for my famous Vegetarian Pizza. Friends and family would often stop by unannounced, hoping to snag a slice or two to take home with them. I was always happy to oblige, eager to share the joy of good food and good company with those around me.

As I look back on my years of cooking and sharing recipes, I am grateful for the lessons I learned from Mrs. Jenkins and her beloved recipe book. The Vegetarian Pizza will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, I continue to make this pizza for my family and friends, passing down the recipe and the tradition to future generations. Each time I take a bite of that crispy, cheesy slice, I am reminded of the love and joy that went into creating it, a legacy that will live on long after I am gone.