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. It combines a crispy crust with savory cheeses and fresh herbs, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful and satisfying 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 while it heats to ensure a crisp crust.
- Prepare the broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly, enhancing their flavor during baking.
- Make the ricotta garlic mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with minced garlic for a creamy and flavorful base.
- Shape the dough: Stretch the pizza dough into a 12- to 14-inch round on parchment paper or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the pizza: Spread the garlic ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Add cheeses: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ricotta layer.
- Add broccoli and toppings: Distribute the prepared broccoli over the mozzarella, then top with grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2–3 minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Blanch the broccoli for 1 minute if you prefer extra-tender broccoli on your pizza.
- Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions to customize the flavor.
- A drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze after baking adds a delightful finishing touch.
- Store 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
