Hey there, pizza lovers! Today, Iโm bringing you a game-changer in the world of guilt-free indulgenceโmy Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza recipe! If youโre like me and canโt resist a good slice of pizza but also want to keep things light and healthy, then youโre in for a treat. With a crispy cauliflower crust thatโs as easy to make as it is delicious, this recipe is about to become your new go-to for satisfying those pizza cravings without the guilt. So, grab your apron and letโs dive into the world of homemade pizza perfection!
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What youโll need
Serves: 4 Recipe key: Low carb, Gluten free, Meal prep, Vegetarian
For the cauliflower pizza crust:
โ 1.5 lbs. (680g) cauliflower florets
โ 1.8 oz. (50g) shredded cheese
โ 1 egg, beaten
โ 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
โ sea salt & black pepper, to taste
Pizza toppings:
โ 2.7 fl oz. (80ml) marinara sauce
โ 4 oz. (115g) mozzarella ball, sliced
โ fresh basil leaves
โ red pepper flakes (optional)
Crafting the perfect Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza is all about the ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. Cauliflower takes center stage as our delicious, nutrient-packed crust. Shredded cheese adds cheesy goodness and binds everything together, while fresh basil leaves complement the tangy marinara sauce and creamy mozzarella. Together, these key ingredients create a low-carb pizza experience thatโs as satisfying as it is flavorful. Letโs roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and create pizza perfection! ๐
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What youโll need to do
Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 25 mins
Letโs whip up this Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza!
1| Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) and line a baking sheet with baking paper. Got it? Great!
2| Now, grab that cauliflower and letโs get it ready. If youโve got a fresh head, chop off the florets. Or if youโre using frozen, just thaw them out. Then, itโs grating time! Throw those florets into a food processor or get out your trusty box grater and turn them into cauliflower rice.
3| Pop your cauliflower rice into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it up, and zap it for 4-5 minutes to soften. If youโre feeling like a stovetop champ, sautรฉ it in a pan for about 8-10 minutes. Let it cool down a bit afterward.
4| Once your cauliflower rice isnโt piping hot anymore, transfer it to a thin kitchen towel. Now, this partโs importantโsqueeze out every last bit of moisture like youโre giving it a good hug. We want it as dry as possible.
5| Time to mix things up! In a big bowl, toss together your cauliflower rice, cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands and really give it a good mix until it turns into a dough.
6| Now, press that dough onto your lined baking sheet, shaping it into a nice, even circle, about 9 inches (23cm) wide. Pro tip: If youโve got a pizza stone lying around, use it for an extra crispy crust!
7| Pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes or until itโs just starting to turn golden brown. Want it even crispier? Bake it for 20 minutes, flip it, and then give it another 5-10 minutes on the other side.
8| Once your crust is looking fabulously golden, take it out of the oven and letโs dress it up! Spread on that marinara sauce, layer on the sliced mozzarella, sprinkle on some fresh basil leaves, and if youโre feeling fiery, a dash of red pepper flakes. Feel free to add any other toppings you love!
9| Pop it back in the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is all melty and gooey. Then, take it out, slice it up, and dive in! Enjoy your homemade Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizzaโitโs a healthier twist on a classic favorite!
Some substitution/improvisation ideas
Here are some substitution and improvisation ideas to customize your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza recipe:
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1| Crust Variations: Instead of cauliflower, you can experiment with other low-carb crust alternatives such as zucchini, eggplant, or even a mix of almond flour and coconut flour for a nutty flavor.
2| Cheese Options: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out with other types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
3| Topping Variety: Get creative with your toppings! Add some cooked chicken, crispy bacon, sliced tomatoes, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture. You can also throw on some olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed pizza.
4| Sauce Alternatives: Instead of traditional marinara sauce, try using pesto, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a unique twist on your pizza.
5| Herb Substitutions: If you donโt have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil or other herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor.
6| Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or sriracha sauce on top before baking.
7| Extra Protein: Boost the protein content of your pizza by adding toppings like grilled shrimp, tofu, or black beans.
8| Vegan/Vegetarian Options: For a vegan version, skip the egg and cheese, and use a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute. You can also use vegan cheese alternatives or load up on veggies for a hearty vegetarian pizza.
Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and making it your own, so donโt be afraid to get creative and have fun with your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza recipe! ๐
Some useful tips for the recipe
Here are some useful tips to help you nail your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza:
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1| Thoroughly Drain the Cauliflower: After cooking the cauliflower rice, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a kitchen towel. This will help prevent a soggy crust and ensure a crispy texture.
2| Pre-Bake the Crust: For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the cauliflower crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This will help firm up the crust and prevent it from becoming too soft once the toppings are added.
3| Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the crust from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
4| Spread the Toppings Evenly: When adding the marinara sauce, cheese, and toppings, make sure to distribute them evenly across the crust to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
5| Donโt Overload with Toppings: While itโs tempting to pile on the toppings, be mindful not to overload the pizza, especially if youโre using a cauliflower crust, as it may become too heavy and difficult to handle.
6| Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the flavor of your cauliflower crust by experimenting with different herbs and spices. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like oregano and thyme to the crust mixture for an extra flavor boost.
7| Let it Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This will help the cheese set and prevent the toppings from sliding off when you cut into it.
8| Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop the slices back in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.
With these tips in mind, youโll be well on your way to creating the perfect Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza every time! ๐
Some serving suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza:
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1| Side Salad: Serve your pizza alongside a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Caesar dressing for a balanced meal.
2| Roasted Vegetables: Pair your pizza with a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs for a hearty and nutritious meal.
3| Antipasto Platter: Create a Mediterranean-inspired antipasto platter with an assortment of cured meats, olives, roasted peppers, marinated artichokes, and cheese for a flavorful and satisfying spread.
4| Garlic Breadsticks: Whip up a batch of homemade garlic breadsticks using low-carb bread or cauliflower dough for dipping into marinara sauce or enjoying on the side.
5| Soup or Minestrone: Serve your pizza alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or hearty minestrone soup for a cozy and comforting meal on chilly days.
6| Fresh Fruit: Balance out the savory flavors of your pizza with a refreshing fruit salad or a platter of sliced melons, berries, and grapes for a sweet and light dessert option.
7| Bruschetta: Start your meal with a classic bruschetta appetizer made with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic glaze served on toasted low-carb bread or slices of cauliflower crust for a tasty prelude to your pizza feast.
8| Wine or Sparkling Water: Pair your pizza with a glass of your favorite wine such as Pinot Noir, Chianti, or Sauvignon Blanc for an elegant touch, or opt for sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
These serving suggestions will elevate your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza experience and make it a memorable meal for family and friends to enjoy together! ๐๐ฅ๐ท
Some storage suggestions
Here are some storage suggestions to help you keep your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza fresh:
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1| Refrigerator Storage: If you have leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, leftover pizza will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
2| Freezer Storage: To freeze leftover pizza, place individual slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen pizza will keep well for up to 1-2 months.
3| Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftover pizza, preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Place the pizza slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the crust is crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a quick and convenient meal.
4| Avoid Moisture: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy during storage, place a paper towel or a sheet of parchment paper between the slices before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. This will help absorb any excess moisture and maintain the crispy texture of the crust.
5| Portion Control: If youโre freezing multiple slices, consider portioning them out into smaller batches based on your serving needs. This will make it easier to defrost and reheat only the amount you plan to eat, reducing waste and ensuring each slice stays fresh.
By following these storage suggestions, you can enjoy your Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza whenever the craving strikes, whether itโs freshly baked or conveniently reheated from the freezer! ๐
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And there you have it, folksโmy Low Carb Cauliflower Margherita Pizza recipe, hot and fresh out of the oven! Whether youโre following a low-carb lifestyle, trying to sneak some extra veggies into your diet, or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, this recipe has got you covered. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pizza paradise. Trust me, once you try this cauliflower crust, youโll never look back! Until next time, happy cooking and happy eating! ๐
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Cauliflower Margherita Pizza
With a crust that's crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with all your favorite toppings, this low-carb wonder is a game-changer. Get ready to dazzle your taste buds and impress your friendsโlet's pizza party!
Ingredients
For the cauliflower pizza crust
Pizza toppings
Instructions
-
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with baking paper.
-
Step 2:
Prepare the cauliflower florets by removing them from the stem, or use frozen and thawed cauliflower. Grate the cauliflower using a food processor or a box grater to make cauliflower rice.
-
Step 3:
Place the cauliflower rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave for 4-5 minutes to soften.
-
Step 4:
Alternatively, sauteฬ the cauliflower rice in a pan over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. Allow it to cool to the touch.
-
Step 5:
Transfer the cauliflower rice to a thin kitchen towel. Squeeze out all the excess moisture as thoroughly as possible.
-
Step 6:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cauliflower rice, cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix well and form the pizza dough.
-
Step 7:
Press the dough onto the lined baking sheet, shaping it into an even circle with a diameter of approximately 9โ (23cm).
Top Tip: Swap the lined baking sheet for a pizza stone if you have one as it will result in a far crispier crust.
-
Step 8:
Bake the pizza crust for 25 minutes, or until slightly golden. For an even crispier crust, consider baking for 20 minutes, flipping the crust, and then baking for an additional 5-10 minutes on the second side.
-
Step 9:
Remove the crust from the oven, top with the marinara sauce, sliced mozzarella, basil leaves, red pepper flakes and any additional toppings. Bake for an additional 10 minutes then remove from the oven, slice and serve.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 209kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.