FoodCauliflower crust pizza: Enjoy your favorite without the guilt

Cauliflower crust pizza: Enjoy your favorite without the guilt

The classic version of pizza is known for its high-calorie content. However, it can be prepared in a more diet-friendly and gluten-free way, making the meal much lighter. An important ingredient in this recipe is a vegetable that we don't usually associate with this Italian dish.

You can afford such a pizza on a diet.
You can afford such a pizza on a diet.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | brent Hofacker

Pizza is one of the most popular dishes in the world, with its fame extending far beyond Italy. However, in its classic form—on wheat dough—it's not a good option for everyone. It is high in calories and contains gluten, which many people avoid.

A lighter version of pizza

In today's world, practically every dish has a lighter counterpart, and pizza is no exception. Its dough can be made with a vegetable base. Here, cauliflower has proven successful. It needs to be blended, and a few more ingredients are added to the cauliflower powder to make the pizza crust.

Such pizza won't harm your diet

The pizza with a vegetable crust stands out for its lightness and low glycemic index. Classic dough is a substantial source of carbohydrates, while the cauliflower crust has significantly fewer calories and is easier to digest. This flatbread also provides fiber, B vitamins, and valuable antioxidants that support the body. You can safely include it in your diet and even offer it to children.

Pizza on a vegetable crust

Ingredients for the crust:

                
  • 1 cauliflower
  • 1 egg
  • 1.4 oz mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings:

            
  • 0.2 cup tomato passata
  • 3.5 oz mozzarella
  • A few slices of ham
  • A few mushrooms
  • 1 tomato

Preparation:

  1. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and place them in a food processor. Blend until fully crumbled.
  2. Transfer the crumbled cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 4-5 minutes until softened. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a dry skillet and fry over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly.
  3. Mix the prepared cauliflower with the egg, grated cheeses, and spices.
  4. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place 2-3 tablespoons of the dough on it, flattening it to create a circle with a diameter of about 4 inches.
  5. Bake the pizza crusts in an oven preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Spread a thin layer of tomato passata on each flatbread, add your favorite toppings, and sprinkle with grated mozzarella. Bake for an additional 4 minutes.
  7. Serve the mini pizzas warm.

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