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Easy Vegan Pizza Recipe with Healthy Topping Ideas
Vegan Pizza Recipe and Healthy Topping Ideas
Creating a delicious vegan pizza is easier than you think, and with the right toppings, it can be both nutritious and satisfying. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making a vegan pizza from scratch, along with some healthy topping ideas to inspire your next pizza night.
Vegan Pizza Dough Recipe
To start, you need a good vegan pizza dough. Here’s a simple recipe to make a fluffy and slightly crisp homemade crust:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dried yeast | 1 teaspoon |
| Lukewarm water | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/3 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast: Whisk the yeast and lukewarm water together in a heatproof jug or bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes or until it becomes frothy.
Start the Dough: Mix the salt and flour in a large bowl and make a well in the center. Pour the yeast/water mixture and the oil into the middle. Gently mix the dough until it forms a ball.
Knead and Let Rise: Gently knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it smooths out. Transfer the ball of pizza dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic, and let it rise in a warm area until it’s doubled in size.
Knead Again: Once it’s doubled, knead the dough again on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into two balls. Wrap one of the balls in plastic and keep it in the freezer for later.
Par-bake the Crust: Roll out the ball of dough into a circle (about 12 inches in diameter). Place it on a pizza pan and par-bake in the oven at 190°C/375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Add Toppings and Bake: Spread pizza sauce over the par-baked crust, then add your vegan cheese and Italian seasonings. Bake the pizza again until the crust is golden and the “cheese” has melted.
Healthy Topping Ideas
The fun part of making a vegan pizza is choosing the toppings. Here are some healthy and delicious options:
| Topping Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Veggies | Tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, olives, artichoke hearts, bell peppers, broccoli florets, zucchini, spinach |
| Vegan Cheese | Homemade vegan mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese |
| Herbs and Spices | Fresh basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, Italian seasoning |
| Other Options | Pineapple, cashew cream, sun-dried tomatoes, jalapeño peppers |
Example Vegan Pizza Recipes
Easy Veggie Pizza:
- Crust: Pre-made or homemade pizza crust.
- Toppings: Marinara sauce, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and vegan cheese.
- Instructions: Bake at 425°F for approximately 20 minutes.
Summer Veggie Pizza:
- Crust: Store-bought or homemade pizza dough.
- Toppings: Broccoli, cherry tomatoes, corn, onion, jalapeño, sun-dried tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, salt, and pepper, topped with cashew cream.
- Instructions: Bake until the crust is golden and the veggies are tender.
Tips and Variations
| Tip/Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| No-Knead Crust | For a quicker option, try a no-knead crust recipe that can be ready in 20 minutes. |
| Gluten-Free Crust | Use gluten-free flours to make a crust suitable for those with dietary restrictions. |
| Vegan Cheese Recipes | Experiment with different homemade vegan cheese recipes like cashew mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan. |
With these recipes and topping ideas, you can create a variety of delicious and healthy vegan pizzas that everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to find your favorite!