| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 16g | 8g | 32g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 10g | 1.5g |
There are few culinary creations that marry simplicity, health, and bursting flavors as well as the Pumpkin Flower and Goat Cheese Pizza does. This dish is a testament to the creative potential of fresh, wholesome ingredients. When I first stumbled upon the idea of incorporating pumpkin into pizza, I was intrigued by the potential for a taste experience that strayed from the conventional.
A Perfect Balance of Nutrients and Flavor
What makes the Pumpkin Flower and Goat Cheese Pizza a standout is not just its incredible taste but also its nutritional benefits. Pumpkins are a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which is fantastic for vision and immune function. Combined with goat cheese, which is easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese and packs a significant amount of calcium and protein, this pizza is not only a treat for your taste buds but also your body.
The fresh arugula adds a peppery crunch, aligning perfectly with the sweetness of the pumpkin purée and the tang of the goat cheese. Cherry tomatoes and fresh basil bring in that classic Italian freshness, further elevated by a beautifully contrasting balsamic glaze and a hint of honey. The inclusion of pumpkin seeds gives an unexpected but welcome crunch that’s rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
California Inspiration Meets Comfort Food
Growing up in the sunny valleys of California, my culinary ethos has always revolved around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This pizza brings together that West Coast health-consciousness with the comfort of traditional American food. It’s a slice of my heritage and my love for home-grown produce, echoing the fresh salads and avocado toasts that are a staple in my kitchen.
If you’re a fan of dishes like roasted veggie flatbread or butternut squash pizza, you’ll find a new favorite in this recipe. It’s a versatile creation that can be served as a heartwarming lunch or a rustic dinner, perhaps accompanied by a fresh arugula salad or a light Riesling wine.
The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for a family cooking activity. My kids adore scattering the cherry tomatoes and pumpkin seeds over the pizza, and it’s a joy to watch them engage with healthy ingredients in such a fun way. And let’s be honest, who can resist the charm of a beautifully cooked homemade pizza, with slightly charred crust and bubbling cheese?
Give the Pumpkin Flower and Goat Cheese Pizza a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Not only is it a nutritional win, but it’s also a delightful medley of flavors that brings the essence of fresh Californian produce to your dining table.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 lemon, zested
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well. If not, you can use a regular baking sheet.
Step Two
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper for easier handling.
Step Three
In a bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough.
Step Four
Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese over the pumpkin purée mixture.
Step Five
Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step Six
While the pizza is baking, in a small bowl, combine the fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, fresh basil, balsamic glaze, honey, and lemon zest.
Step Seven
Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top the pizza with the arugula and cherry tomato mixture.
Step Eight
Slice and serve your Pumpkin Flower and Goat Cheese Pizza immediately. Enjoy!
