Description
This Broccoli White Pizza is a delicious vegetarian pizza featuring a creamy garlic ricotta base topped with tender broccoli florets, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of rich, cheesy flavors and fresh herbs makes it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy homemade pizza night.
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 1 (12- to 14-inch) pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for pizza peel)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. This ensures a crispy crust when baking the pizza.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to season evenly and enhance their flavor.
- Make the Ricotta Garlic Base: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with minced garlic, stirring until well blended to create a creamy, flavorful base for the pizza.
- Shape the Dough: Stretch the pizza dough into a 12- to 14-inch round shape and place it on parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Spread the Ricotta Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic ricotta mixture over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges for the crust.
- Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the ricotta layer to provide melty, gooey texture and flavor.
- Top with Broccoli and Seasonings: Distribute the seasoned broccoli florets evenly over the mozzarella, then sprinkle grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) on top for added taste and aroma.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza (using the parchment paper or pizza peel) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- For extra-tender broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 1 minute before tossing with olive oil and seasoning.
- Enhance the pizza by adding extra toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
- A drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze after baking can add a delicious sweet and tangy contrast.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
