Join me as I walk you through how to make this easy, flavorful, and healthy Green’s Pizza recipe that has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious newbie in the world of cooking, this recipe is wonderfully simple and adaptable to whatever greens you have on hand. Let’s prepare those ovens for a pizza that will change your thoughts about homemade pizzas!
What Is Green’s Pizza?
Green’s Pizza is a specific type of pizza on the menu at Green’s Pizza. This pizza is known for its distinctive toppings and is often celebrated for its unique flavor.
Ingredients:
For The dough:
- 1 lb of store-bought or homemade pizza dough (or a gluten-free alternative)
- Flour for dusting
- Cornmeal or parchment paper for the baking sheet
For The toppings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups of mixed greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula (chopped if necessary)
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, chopped if large
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (color of your choice), thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (vegan or regular)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Optional additional toppings:
- Sliced mushrooms
- Artichoke hearts
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Olives
Instructions:
Prepare The Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a baking stone or steel, place it in the oven to preheat.
- Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12—to 14-inch round. Transfer to parchment paper or a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
Prepare The Toppings:
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the mixed greens and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Assemble The Pizza:
- Brush the prepared dough with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Spread the sautéed greens evenly over the base.
- Distribute the onions, bell pepper, and any additional toppings you use.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and feta cheese (if using) evenly over the top.
Bake The Pizza:
- Slide the pizza (with parchment if using) onto the preheated baking stone or tray.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve And Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
- Cut into slices and serve hot.
Tips For Perfect Green’s Pizza:
- Dough thickness: Depending on your preference, roll the dough thinner for a crispier base or leave it a bit thicker for a chewier texture.
- Cheese options: Swap out mozzarella and feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
- Pre-cooking veggies: Sautéing greens and other watery vegetables like mushrooms helps to reduce moisture and avoids a soggy pizza.
- Baking surface: Use a pizza stone or steel for the crispiest crust. If unavailable, a preheated baking sheet works well, too.
- Serving suggestion: Drizzle with pesto or balsamic glaze for an additional layer of flavor after baking.
What To Serve With
Salad
- Classic Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing can add a tangy contrast to the Green’s Pizza. Consider using lighter dressing and adding homemade croutons for an extra crunch.
- Caprese Salad: Simple slices of ripe tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction, can mirror the Italian flavors found in pizza while offering a cool, refreshing counterpoint.
Soups
- Tomato Basil Soup: A classic tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with any pizza, including this veggie-loaded Green’s Pizza—dipping an edge into the soup is a must-try!
- Minestrone: A hearty vegetable minestrone soup can complement the pizza with its abundance of vegetables and rich broth.
Appetizers
- Stuffed Mushrooms: As a warm-up to your pizza feast, offer stuffed mushrooms filled with a blend of cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can serve as a great starter before digging into the green’s-topped pizza.
Beverages
- White Wine: Pair the pizza with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which can highlight the greens’ fresh, herbal notes.
- Craft Beer: If beer is more your style, try a pilsner or a light lager that won’t overpower the pizza’s flavors.
- Sparkling Water: Flavored or unflavored sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime offers a refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
Desserts
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and tangy lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing finish to your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with seasonal fruits can add sweetness and a light end note after the savory pizza.
Additional Sides
- Roasted Vegetables: If you’re in the mood for more veggies, a side of roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper works well.
- Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette can be a satisfying accompaniment that complements the Green’s Pizza’s garlic and olive oil base.
Health Benefits
Nutrient-Rich Toppings
- Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
- Folate is particularly important for pregnant women and helps in fetal development and growth.
- Iron: Found in darker greens, it’s essential for energy levels and combating fatigue.
- Calcium is essential for bone health and the proper function of the heart and muscles.
- Dietary Fiber: Vegetable toppings are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness. This fiber can potentially aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Many leafy green’s contain antioxidants and phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
- Lower Calorie Option: Depending on the choice of crust and cheese quantity, Green’s Pizza can be a lower-calorie option than traditional pizza topped with meat and extra cheese. Opting for a thin whole-grain crust and a moderate amount of cheese—or even a cheese alternative—can significantly reduce calorie intake while satisfying pizza cravings.
- Healthy Fats: If olive oil is used as a base or drizzle, it adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the pizza. These fats benefit heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
- Customizability for Dietary Needs: Green’s Pizza can be easily adapted to fit various dietary restrictions or preferences. For example, a cauliflower or almond flour crust can make it suitable for ketogenic or gluten-free diets. At the same time, vegan cheese can accommodate those following a dairy-free or vegan lifestyle.
- Satiety and Portion Control: The high fiber content from the vegetable toppings and an informed choice of crust and cheese can contribute to a feeling of satiety. This makes it easier to enjoy your meal without overindulging, aiding in portion control.
- Psychological Benefits: Including a colorful variety of vegetables in your Green’s Pizza can also have psychological benefits, making meals more enjoyable and satisfying due to the vibrant visual appeal and the knowledge that you’re choosing a healthier option.
Final Thoughts
The versatility of Green’s Pizza makes it a fantastic option for almost anyone—whether you’re a dedicated health enthusiast, someone looking to make better dietary choices without feeling deprived, or even a family looking for a nutritious meal that’s both enjoyable for adults and fun for kids. You transform what is often viewed as a guilty pleasure into a powerhouse of nutritional benefits by choosing whole grain or alternative crusts, minimal and smarter cheese options, and many vibrant, nutrient-dense greens and vegetables.
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