Broccoli White Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli White Pizza is everything you want in a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The fresh and tender broccoli pairs beautifully with the richness of the mozzarella and parmesan, creating a delicious contrast of textures. The pine nuts add a touch of crunch and nuttiness, while the garlic and extra virgin olive oil enhance the flavor without overwhelming the ingredients. With the subtle sweetness from the red onion and the freshness of basil, this pizza is light but still incredibly flavorful. Plus, the convenience of using a precooked thin pizza crust makes it a time-saver, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Restaurant-Style Olive Oil Bread Dip
• 1 (10.8 oz) bag frozen steam-in-bag (microwave) broccoli cuts or florets, thawed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 pinches kosher salt
• 1 pinch fresh cracked pepper
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 precooked thin pizza crust
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If your precooked pizza crust requires baking, follow the instructions on the package to ensure it’s heated properly.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: In a skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the thawed broccoli, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a small dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Pizza: Place the precooked pizza crust on a baking sheet. Spread the mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust. Top with the sautéed broccoli mixture, then scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the pizza. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Pizza: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the crust are golden brown.
6. Finish the Pizza: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve: Slice and serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for a protein boost. Grilled chicken pairs especially well with the flavors of the broccoli.
• Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the parmesan for a vegan version of this pizza.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a spicy-sweet twist.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through, or heat slices in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy crust.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Simply chop it into florets and blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, or sauté it directly in the pan for a quicker option.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or provolone for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the crust crispy?

To get a crispy crust, bake the pizza at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C), and place the pizza directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes of baking to ensure the bottom gets crispy.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the toppings and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply assemble and bake the pizza when you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen broccoli?

To thaw frozen broccoli, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a few minutes. Be sure to drain any excess water before using it on the pizza.

Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes! You can freeze leftover pizza by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat it in the oven for the best results.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use any type of crust you prefer. Cauliflower crust or gluten-free pizza crust would work well as alternatives.

How do I prevent the pizza from getting soggy?

Be sure to drain the broccoli well before adding it to the pizza, and consider preheating the crust in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the pizza.

Can I add more garlic?

Of course! If you’re a fan of garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the sautéed broccoli for an extra burst of flavor.

How can I make the pizza spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or drizzle the pizza with hot oil or sriracha before serving for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Broccoli White Pizza is a perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. With its cheesy, savory goodness and the healthy addition of broccoli and pine nuts, it’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or dinner. The easy prep, quick bake time, and satisfying flavors make it a must-try recipe for pizza lovers who want something a little different. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and flavorful bites of this delicious white pizza!

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