Green Pizza

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful way to enjoy pizza night, look no further than this Green Pizza! Loaded with vibrant green veggies and topped with creamy feta and artichokes, this dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting friends, having a cozy family dinner, or just craving something delicious on a busy weeknight, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

What makes this Green Pizza special is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering big flavors. It’s perfect for those who want to eat healthy without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in less than an hour.
• Veggie-packed goodness: It’s loaded with wholesome greens like spinach and broccoli, making it a nutritious choice.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this colorful pizza—it’s hard to resist such vibrant toppings!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the ingredients in advance, so all you need to do is assemble and bake when you’re ready.
• Deliciously versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Green Pizza features simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find everything you need right here!

For the Pesto

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup basil leaves (lightly packed)
• 1 cup spinach leaves (lightly packed)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin)
• kosher salt
• pepper

For the Pizza

• nonstick spray (or olive oil)
• 2 heads broccoli (not bunches)
• 1 pound (454 grams) pizza dough
• 1 (14-ounce / 397 gram) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
• 8 ounces (227 grams) shredded mozzarella (about 2 cups)
• 1 cup crumbled feta

Variations

This Green Pizza is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most.

• Add more greens: Toss in some arugula or kale for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Change the cheese: Swap out feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or banana peppers for a little kick!
• Try different crusts: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for a healthier twist.

How to Make Green Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pizza will bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust. While it heats up, lightly coat your baking sheet or pizza pan with nonstick spray or olive oil. If your pizza dough was in the fridge, set it out now so it can warm up a bit—it makes rolling it out so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the walnuts, garlic, basil leaves, spinach leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. This fresh pesto is not only packed with flavor but also gives our Green Pizza its signature green color! Feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

While your pesto blends away, chop the broccoli into small florets. Steam them lightly until they are bright green but still crisp—this keeps their texture intact for that satisfying bite!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pizza

Roll out your pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet or pan. Spread a generous layer of pesto all over the base. Top with steamed broccoli, quartered artichoke hearts, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled feta. Don’t be shy; pile on those veggies!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your assembled pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once baked to perfection, let it cool for just a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm and watch everyone dig into this delightful Green Pizza! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Green Pizza

Making your own Green Pizza can be a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll elevate your pizza game to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a world of difference in flavor and texture. They not only enhance the taste but also add vibrant colors to your pizza, making it visually appealing.

• Don’t rush the dough: Allow your pizza dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it easier to stretch and shape, resulting in a perfectly baked crust that’s crisp on the outside and chewy inside.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or cheeses! Adding seasonal greens or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile and keep things interesting.

• Bake at high heat: Cooking your pizza at a high temperature ensures a crispy crust. The quick cooking time helps lock in the moisture from the toppings without making them soggy.

• Let it rest before slicing: After baking, let your pizza rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from sliding off when you take that first delicious bite.

How to Serve Green Pizza

Serving Green Pizza is all about creating an inviting atmosphere around the meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, here are some ideas.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A handful of vibrant basil leaves adds an aromatic touch that complements the pesto and enhances freshness.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil adds depth and pairs beautifully with the green theme of your pizza.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra pesto or olive oil left on your plate.
• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits not only refreshes the palate but also adds a sweet finish to your meal.

Enjoy creating this delightful Green Pizza experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Pizza is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices throughout the week without any hassle. You can easily store leftovers or even make the pizza in advance to save time on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the pizza cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet.
• Reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Alternatively, use a microwave: heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, although this may soften the crust.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful Green Pizza.

Can I use different greens for my Green Pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with any leafy greens you have on hand, such as kale or arugula, to customize your Green Pizza just the way you like it.

What are some good toppings for Green Pizza?

In addition to the recipe’s ingredients, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or olives for extra flavor and color. Get creative with your favorite veggies!

How can I make my Green Pizza healthier?

To enhance the nutritional value of your Green Pizza, try using whole wheat pizza dough and reducing cheese slightly. You can also load up on more vegetables!

Is this Green Pizza suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Green Pizza is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Green Pizza! Its vibrant flavors and colorful veggies make it a special dish that’s not only satisfying but also healthy. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family or savoring it all by yourself during a cozy night in. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!