This healthy cauliflower crust pizza is a fantastic way to make your meal times both fun and nutritious. Perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen, this recipe lets them top their own pizzas with favorites like ham, pepperoni, or veggies without realizing they’re getting a full serving of vegetables from the cauliflower base! Rich in protein and calcium from the mozzarella, this pizza is ideal for refueling after an active day.
Serves: 2
Makes: 1 Medium Pizza
Cooking Time: 13 to 19 minutes
Preparation Time: About 30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Base:
- 1 medium cauliflower
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup very finely chopped mozzarella cheese
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for greasing
- For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 cremini mushrooms, sliced
- Leaves from 1 thyme sprig
- ⅔ cup thinly sliced mozzarella cheese
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C). Insert a baking sheet or pizza stone to heat up as the oven warms.
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Break the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until they resemble fine breadcrumbs.
- Transfer to a microwave-proof bowl, cover with plastic wrap (leaving a gap for steam), and microwave on high for 6 minutes. Alternatively, steam, boil, or bake the cauliflower until tender, then cool slightly.
- Dry the Cauliflower:
- Spread the cooked cauliflower on a clean tea towel or cheesecloth, gather the ends, and twist and squeeze to extract as much moisture as possible.
- Make the Pizza Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dried cauliflower, oregano, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- On a piece of greased parchment paper, shape the mixture into a ⅓-inch thick round pizza base. Brush the top with a little more olive oil.
- Bake the Base:
- Transfer the base on the parchment paper to the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking:
- Remove the base from the oven, spread with tomato sauce, and top with mushrooms, thyme leaves, and mozzarella slices. Season with a bit more salt and pepper.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the pizza hot, paired with a big green salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Engage children in choosing and adding their own toppings, making this healthy pizza a fun and interactive meal.
- Ensure the cauliflower is as dry as possible before mixing with other ingredients to prevent a soggy base.
This Healthy Cauliflower Crust Pizza not only increases your vegetable intake but also brings a delicious twist to pizza night, making it a meal you can feel good about serving.