06 Jun 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
1 cauliflower
1/3 cup almonds
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs
2 zucchini
1 cup ricotta cheese
3 slices prosciutto
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil
Indulge in a guilt-free pizza experience with this delectable Cauliflower-crust pizza topped with creamy ricotta, savory prosciutto, and a refreshing mint pesto. Perfect for those seeking a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor, this pizza promises to be a crowd-pleaser for any meal.
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower Crust:
- Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower, then break it into florets. Place the florets into a food processor and pulse until they resemble rice grains.
- Transfer the cauliflower rice into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for about 5-8 minutes until softened.
- Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then place it in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much moisture as possible.
3. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, almonds, grated parmesan cheese, and eggs. Mix everything until it's well combined.
- Spread the cauliflower mixture onto the prepared baking tray, forming it into a pizza shape with your hands or a spatula. Press down to make sure the crust is even.
4. Bake the Crust:
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and firm to the touch.
5. Prepare the Zucchini:
- While the crust is baking, wash the zucchini and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
- Lightly salt the zucchini slices and place them in a colander to drain excess moisture.
6. Make the Mint Pesto:
In a food processor, combine the fresh parsley, garlic cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Pulse until it forms a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble the Pizza:
- Once the cauliflower crust is baked and slightly cooled, spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the crust.
- Arrange the zucchini slices on top of the ricotta cheese.
- Tear the prosciutto slices into smaller pieces and scatter them over the zucchini.
8. Bake the Pizza:
Place the assembled pizza back into the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the prosciutto is slightly crispy.
9. Finish with Pesto:
Remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle the mint pesto over the top.
10. Serve:
Slice and serve your delicious cauliflower-crust pizza hot. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy crust. You can use a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out the moisture.
- Pre-bake the cauliflower crust to give it more structure and avoid a mushy base.
- For a crispier base, flip the cauliflower crust halfway through the pre-baking process.
- Adjust the thickness of the crust according to your preference by spreading the cauliflower mixture more thinly or thickly on the baking sheet.
- Let the pre-baked crust cool for a few minutes before adding the toppings to prevent it from getting too wet.
- Experiment with additional toppings, such as cherry tomatoes or fresh arugula, to add more variety and flavor to your pizza.
Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this Cauliflower-crust pizza with ricotta, prosciutto, and mint pesto offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you satisfied and nourished. Follow these tips to perfect your pizza-making skills and enjoy a delicious, health-conscious alternative to traditional pizza.