This veggie pizza is a colorful feast! It’s topped with fresh peppers, juicy tomatoes, and plenty of melty cheese—perfect for anyone who loves a good crunch and a burst of flavor.
I love loading up my slices with extra veggies—who says you can’t be healthy and enjoy pizza? Plus, it’s super fun to make with friends or family on a cozy night in! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Crust: You can use a pre-made crust for convenience, but making your own is very rewarding! For a gluten-free option, look for a store-bought gluten-free crust or make one using almond or chickpea flour.
Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite pizza sauce or marinara. If you’re in a pinch, even a simple tomato sauce or pesto works well. For a spicy touch, try adding some hot sauce to plain tomato sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for pizza, but you could mix it up with provolone or goat cheese for a different flavor. Vegan cheese options also work great for a dairy-free pizza.
Veggies: This recipe is flexible! If you don’t have zucchini or bell peppers, use broccoli, red onions, or even artichokes. Get creative with what you have on hand!
Fresh Herbs: Basil adds a wonderful flavor, but if it’s not available, try using oregano, thyme, or even arugula after baking for a peppery kick.
How Do I Get a Crispy Crust Every Time?
Getting a crispy crust can be a game changer for your veggie pizza! Here are some simple tips:
- Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven at the highest setting (around 450°F/230°C) for a few minutes before baking.
- Use a Pizza Stone: If you have one, place it in the oven while preheating. It helps heat the crust evenly and adds crispiness.
- Don’t Overload with Sauce: Too much sauce can make the crust soggy. A thin even layer is best.
- Cook Veggies First: If you want to avoid watery toppings, sauté or roast the vegetables beforehand. This will prevent excess moisture while baking.
Following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously crisp crust every time! Happy pizza making!
Veggie Pizza Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (12-inch, or homemade if preferred)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or other fresh herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep and gather your ingredients, along with 12-15 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes to whip up this delicious veggie pizza!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, pop that in the oven as it heats up. This will help achieve a nice crispy crust!
2. Prepare the Pizza Crust:
Once the oven is preheated, lightly brush the edges of your pizza crust with olive oil. This will make your crust extra golden and tasty! Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the crust, leaving a small border around the edges for a beautiful crust.
3. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese all over the sauce. If you prefer, you can also slice fresh mozzarella and lay it on top.
4. Layer on the Veggies:
Now it’s time to get colorful! Arrange the sliced zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, corn, and spinach leaves evenly over the cheesy layer. The more, the merrier—pile on those veggies!
5. Season:
Add some dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the top of the veggies for a flavor boost.
6. Extra Cheese?
Want some extra cheesy goodness? Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the veggies.
7. Bake Your Pizza:
Carefully place the pizza on the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is all melted and bubbly.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take the pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This helps prevent burns when cutting. Garnish it with fresh basil or other fresh herbs, and if you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top!
9. Slice and Serve:
Now, slice your delicious veggie pizza into pieces, serve warm, and enjoy the colorful medley of flavors and textures!
This veggie pizza is not only hearty and satisfying but also a bright and cheerful dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use a Different Pizza Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pizza sauce, marinara, pesto, or even a homemade tomato sauce. The flavor will vary, but it will all be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this veggie pizza vegan by using a dairy-free cheese substitute or omitting the cheese altogether. Using a rich sauce like pesto or adding more veggies can keep it flavorful!
Can I Prepare This Pizza in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the pizza up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it also works well for meal prep!
What Should I Do with Leftover Veggie Pizza?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving again for some extra flavor!