FoodReinventing the classic: Guilt-free cauliflower pizza crust

Reinventing the classic: Guilt-free cauliflower pizza crust

The classic version of pizza is known for its high calorie content. However, it can be prepared in a more diet-friendly version, and additionally gluten-free. Such a meal will be much lighter. An important ingredient in the recipe is a vegetable that we don't usually associate with this Italian dish.

You can allow yourself such a pizza on a diet.
You can allow yourself such a pizza on a diet.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | brent Hofacker

Pizza is one of the most popular dishes in the world. Its fame extends far beyond its native Italy. However, in its classic version, that is, on wheat dough, it is not a good option for everyone. Mainly, it is high in calories and contains gluten, which many people avoid.

A lighter version of pizza

In today's world, practically every dish has a lighter counterpart. This trend hasn't spared pizza. It turns out that its dough can be made with a vegetable base. Cauliflower has proven successful here, needing only to be blended. A few more ingredients are added to the cauliflower powder, and thus the pizza crust is made.

Such pizza won't harm your diet

This pizza with a vegetable addition is distinguished by its lightness and low glycemic index. Classic dough is a substantial portion of carbohydrates, while the crust made from cauliflower has significantly fewer calories and is easier to digest. This flatbread also provides fibre, B vitamins, and valuable antioxidants that support the body. You can safely eat it on a diet and also offer it to children.

Pizza on a vegetable crust

Ingredients for the crust:

  • 1 cauliflower,
  • 1 egg,
  • 40 grams mozzarella,
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese,
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano,
  • salt and pepper to taste,
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder.

Toppings:

  • 50 millilitres tomato passata,
  • 100 grams mozzarella,
  • a few slices of ham,
  • a few mushrooms,
  • 1 tomato.

Preparation:

  1. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and then place them in a food processor and blend until fully crumbled.
  2. Transfer the cauliflower powder to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 4-5 minutes until softened. You can also transfer it to a dry skillet and fry over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly.
  3. Mix the prepared cauliflower with the egg, grated cheeses, and spices.
  4. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place 2-3 tablespoons of dough, then flatten it to create a circle with a diameter of about 10 centimetres.
  5. Place the pizza crusts into an oven preheated to 220 degrees Celsius and bake for 10-12 minutes. Then spread a thin layer of tomato passata on each flatbread, add your favourite toppings, and sprinkle with grated mozzarella. Bake for an additional 4 minutes.
  6. Serve the mini pizzas warm.