Zucchini pizza is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pizza. Instead of a classic dough crust, we use fresh zucchini slices to provide a flavorful base topped with all your favorite pizza ingredients. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to enjoy a low-carb meal without sacrificing taste.
Why Make This Recipe
Making zucchini pizza is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It’s not only nutritious but also quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. This recipe is versatile; you can add your favorite toppings or adjust the seasonings to your taste. Plus, it’s a fun dish to make with friends and family!
How to Make Zucchini Pizza
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Cornmeal
- 1 pound fresh pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup thinly sliced zucchini (⅛-inch thick)
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasonings
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- If you are using store-bought pizza dough, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Set the oven rack to the lower position. Preheat to 500ºF (260ºC).
- Lightly brush a large baking sheet with olive oil. Evenly sprinkle cornmeal on the pan if desired.
- On a lightly floured surface, stretch and shape the 1-pound fresh pizza dough into a 10-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Use your fingers to press the dough into a 12-inch circle, leaving the edges slightly thicker, about ½-inch tall and wide.
- Brush some olive oil on the edges of the dough to make the crust crispier when baked.
- Spread the ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce on top, followed by 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and ¾ cup thinly sliced zucchini.
- Sprinkle the ¼ teaspoon Italian seasonings, kosher salt, and black pepper on top.
- Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes and grated parmesan cheese on top. Slice and serve the pizza immediately while it is still hot.
How to Serve Zucchini Pizza
Serve zucchini pizza hot from the oven. You can pair it with a simple side salad or some dipping sauces like ranch or marinara. This pizza is great for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack!
How to Store Zucchini Pizza
If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool down completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Zucchini Pizza
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of zucchini slices to your liking; thinner slices will cook faster.
- Feel free to add other toppings such as peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by adding more vegetables or try using different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for a unique taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pizza dough?
Yes, you can use frozen pizza dough. Just make sure to let it thaw and rise according to the instructions before shaping it.
2. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pizza dough or even a gluten-free crust made from cauliflower rice.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make zucchini pizza vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure your pizza dough does not contain any animal products.
Zucchini Pizza
Ingredients
Dough Preparation
- 1 pound fresh pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes if using store-bought.
- ½ cup pizza or marinara sauce
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup thinly sliced zucchini (⅛-inch thick) Adjust thickness to your liking.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasonings
- Kosher salt To taste.
- Black pepper To taste.
- Red pepper flakes For garnish.
- Grated parmesan cheese For garnish.
Cooking Essentials
- Olive oil For brushing the baking sheet and crust.
- Cornmeal For sprinkling on the baking sheet.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 500ºF (260ºC) and set the oven rack to the lower position.
- Lightly brush a large baking sheet with olive oil and evenly sprinkle cornmeal on the pan if desired.
- On a lightly floured surface, stretch and shape the fresh pizza dough into a 10-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and press it into a 12-inch circle, leaving edges slightly thicker.
- Brush olive oil on the edges of the dough for a crispy crust.
Assembly and Baking
- Spread the pizza or marinara sauce on top of the dough.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese and thinly sliced zucchini.
- Sprinkle Italian seasonings, kosher salt, and black pepper on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes and grated parmesan cheese on top. Slice and serve immediately while hot.
