Vegetable Pizza is a vibrant and nutritious twist on the classic pizza, loaded with an array of colorful and flavorful vegetables. This recipe brings together the goodness of fresh vegetables, a crispy crust, and a layer of delicious tomato sauce and melted cheese. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a healthier pizza option, Vegetable Pizza is a delightful choice that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (whole wheat or your preferred type)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the pizza crust packaging.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and tomato with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
- Place the pre-made pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Add the Vegetables:
- Arrange the marinated vegetables over the cheese layer, creating a colorful and appealing arrangement.
5. Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables.
6. Bake the Pizza:
- Follow the baking instructions on the pizza crust packaging, typically baking for about 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the Vegetable Pizza is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before slicing.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and flavor.
Nutrition Details
Vegetable Pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying dish. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one slice of Vegetable Pizza (based on a 12-inch pizza):
- Calories: Approximately 150 calories per slice
- Total Fat: About 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 7g
Health Benefits
This Vegetable Pizza recipe offers a range of nutrients and health benefits:
- The colorful bell peppers provide a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Zucchini adds dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.
- Tomatoes contribute lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits.
- Black olives provide healthy fats and a savory flavor.
Enjoying Vegetable Pizza
Vegetable Pizza is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings:
- Serve it as a satisfying dinner for the family.
- Cut it into smaller squares for a nutritious party appetizer.
- Pack slices for a wholesome lunch or snack on-the-go.
- Customize the toppings to your preferences, adding mushrooms, spinach, or any other veggies you love.
With its colorful presentation, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients, Vegetable Pizza is a delightful way to enjoy a pizza night while nourishing your body with the goodness of vegetables.