Pizza is a universally loved dish, but its traditional crust is often a source of high carbohydrates and calories. Enter the Broccoli Pizza Crust—a delicious, low-carb alternative that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the classic comfort of pizza. This innovative recipe not only caters to those seeking a healthier lifestyle but also provides a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply exploring new culinary trends, broccoli pizza crust is a versatile option worth trying.
Ingredients
To make this delightful broccoli pizza crust, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (approximately 1 medium head)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Toppings
- Tomato sauce or pesto
- Sliced tomatoes or bell peppers
- Fresh basil or spinach leaves
- Sliced mushrooms or olives
- Extra mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Process the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli and cut it into florets. Use a food processor to pulse the florets into a rice-like consistency. This will serve as the base for your pizza crust.
- Steam the Broccoli Rice: Place the broccoli rice in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plate. Microwave on high for 4–5 minutes until it’s soft and tender. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture
- Remove Excess Moisture: Once the broccoli rice has cooled, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli rice, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Crust
- Shape the Crust: Place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to spread and flatten it into a round or rectangular shape, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the broccoli crust in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake Again
- Top the Crust: Remove the crust from the oven and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or pesto over it. Add your choice of toppings and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.
- Final Bake: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Cool Slightly: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps the crust firm up further.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the broccoli pizza into slices and serve it with your favorite salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Egg-Free Crust: For those with egg allergies, try using flaxseed meal as a binder. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to the crust mixture.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to make the crust entirely vegan. Ensure the mixture holds together by adjusting the amounts of other binding agents as necessary.
- Extra Crispy Crust: For a crispier crust, consider flipping the crust halfway through baking before adding toppings.
- Flavor Variations: Customize the seasoning to your liking by adding herbs like oregano, thyme, or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
The Broccoli Pizza Crust is a perfect solution for those seeking a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional pizza. This recipe not only satisfies your pizza cravings but also adds a dose of vegetables to your meal. Easy to make and versatile in its toppings, this crust can be tailored to fit any dietary preference or flavor palette.
Try this broccoli pizza crust recipe and experience a new take on a beloved classic. Share your creations with us by leaving a comment below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family on social media. Subscribe to our newsletter for more healthy and innovative recipes that delight your taste buds and inspire your cooking adventures.