Craving pizza but want a lighter, healthier twist? We’ve got you covered! This artichoke and spinach pesto pizza uses a crisp cauliflower crust for a lower-carb, veggie-packed alternative that’s still bursting with flavor—plus it’s easy on the budget. Simple to make and loaded with wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect guilt-free upgrade to a classic favorite.
Servings: 2
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 6 cups frozen riced cauliflower, thawed
- 2 oz goat cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Pesto
- 1 cup packed baby spinach
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 3 raw walnut halves
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped artichoke heart quarters
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Directions
Prepare the crust
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix the egg, goat cheese, parmesan, and salt until smooth. Place the thawed cauliflower in a clean dish towel, gather the edges, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Add the cauliflower to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
Bake the crust
Spread the dough onto the baking sheet, pressing it into a 1/4-inch thick circle. Bake for 20 minutes, or until firm and set.
Make the pesto
In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine spinach, lemon juice, parmesan, walnuts, garlic, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Blend until creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add 1 Tbsp water.
Assemble and bake
Remove the crust from the oven and carefully flip it onto the pan, peeling away the parchment. Spread pesto evenly over the crust. Add artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, and feta. Bake for an additional 5–8 minutes, until the cheese begins to brown.
Slice into four pieces and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is cauliflower crust healthier than regular pizza crust?
Yes! Cauliflower crust is typically lower in carbs and calories than traditional wheat crust, making it a lighter alternative.
Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen riced cauliflower?
Absolutely. Just rice it in a food processor and steam it briefly before squeezing out excess moisture.
How do I make sure the cauliflower crust isn’t soggy?
The key is squeezing out as much water as possible from the cauliflower before mixing it with the other crust ingredients.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and bake the crust in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month.
What can I use instead of goat cheese in the crust?
Cream cheese or shredded mozzarella can work well as substitutes, though the flavor will change slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your parmesan and feta are labeled gluten-free.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought pesto works for convenience, though homemade spinach pesto gives a fresher taste.
What other toppings go well with this pizza?
You can try mushrooms, roasted red peppers, olives, or grilled chicken for extra flavor and protein.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Use vegan cheese alternatives and swap the egg for a flax egg or other binding agent.
How long will leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Can I make mini pizzas instead of one large one?
Definitely! Just divide the dough into smaller circles and reduce baking time slightly.
How can I make the crust crispier?
Bake it a few minutes longer before adding toppings, or broil briefly after adding the toppings for extra crunch.
Conclusion
This cauliflower crust artichoke and spinach pesto pizza proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. With a crispy, veggie-packed base, fresh homemade pesto, and vibrant toppings like artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, and feta, it’s a deliciously satisfying twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for anyone looking for a lighter, gluten-free, and budget-friendly option, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it’s a feel-good pizza you’ll want to enjoy again and again.