| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 398 | 12g | 5g | 53g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 18g | 1.2g |
There’s simply nothing like the bustling, flavorful landscapes of New York City, and my Roasted Veggie and Basil Pizza is a sensational homage to the city that never sleeps. The alluring mix of roasted vegetables, aromatic basil, and tantalizing cheese against a backdrop of hearty pizza dough is one vividly flavorful experience that deserves applause just as much as a Broadway hit. Topped with a firm crust that’s crisped to perfection and a delightfully zingy pizza sauce, it’s a harmonious blend of flavors that any New Yorker would be proud of. This is ‘the’ pizza recipe to check out if you’re a fan of the city’s world-renowned pizza scene.
The Health Considerations of Roasted Veggie and Basil Pizza
At first blush, you might be thinking, “A pizza recipe? And healthy?” But the Roasted Veggie and Basil Pizza, my friends, is a wonderful exception to the widely held belief that pizza cannot be good for you. It’s a feast for both your taste buds and your health consciousness.
Its centerpiece, the mixed roasted veggies – bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions – provides a host of vitamins and minerals that are vital for overall health. The mozzarella cheese, meanwhile, adds a necessary injection of protein and calcium. Not to mention, the sprinkle of oregano not only enhances the flavor but also lends its antioxidant properties to the mix. All these are nestled in the well-rounded vessel of pizza dough, making this a nutritionally balanced meal.
Dish Pairing with the Pizza
Wondering what to pair with this delightful dish? Consider an arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing for a simple side that complements the Roasted Veggie and Basil Pizza. The peppery green leaves of arugula and the tangy freshness offered by the vinaigrette dressing perfectly offset the robust flavors of the pizza. Alternatively, you can go the all-Italian route and pair it with a hearty Minestrone soup, wrapped up with a refreshing glass of Chianti for an accomplish dinner experience.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a pizza-enthusiast hunting for a healthier twist on your favorite dish, this roasted Veggie and Basil Pizza is one recipe brimming with the vibrancy of New York City’s culinary treasures. Trust me, you’d want to recreate this aromatic performance in your kitchen, too.
What You’ll Need
- 1½ pound pizza dough
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups mixed roasted veggies (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting the baking sheet)
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Method
Step One
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C) and dust a baking sheet with the cornmeal. Set aside.
Step Two
Take your pizza dough and roll it out into a suitable shape for your baking sheet, either round or rectangular. It should be approximately ¼ inch thick. Once you have your shape, place the rolled dough on your prepared baking sheet.
Step Three
Next, spread the pizza sauce over your dough, leaving a small border for the crust. It’s best to use the back of a spoon for this to ensure an even spread.
Step Four
Evenly distribute the mixed roasted veggies over the layer of pizza sauce. Try to keep the vegetables in an even, single layer to ensure proper cooking.
Step Five
Scatter over the chopped fresh basil leaves, again keeping things as even as possible. After this, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the vegetables and basil.
Step Six
Drizzle the olive oil over the entire pizza, then sprinkle on the dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper.
Step Seven
Place the pizza in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted and is starting to brown.
Step Eight
Once your pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade roasted veggie and basil pizza!
