Craving a delicious and easy vegetarian dinner recipe that’s bursting with flavor? You need to make this Pesto Pizza with Grilled Vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce on a simple, satisfying pizza.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought works perfectly, or make your own.
- Pesto: Use your favorite store-bought basil pesto for convenience.
- Mozzarella: Shredded low-moisture mozzarella is ideal.
- Assorted Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes are great choices.
- Olive Oil: For grilling and brushing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound store-bought pizza dough
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools needed: Baking sheet or pizza stone, grill pan or outdoor grill.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables
Wash and slice all your vegetables. Toss the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
2. Grill the Vegetables
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat your outdoor grill. Grill the vegetables for 3-5 minutes per side, until tender-crisp and slightly charred. Set them aside.
3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a 12-14 inch circle.
4. Assemble the Pizza
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a preheated pizza stone. Spread the pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
5. Add Toppings and Bake
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pesto. Arrange the grilled vegetables evenly over the cheese. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your homemade vegetarian dinner recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or asparagus.
- Try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Use whole wheat pizza dough for an extra fiber boost.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Pesto Pizza with Grilled Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices, though the crust may not be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you make this pizza ahead of time?
A: You can grill the vegetables a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pizza just before serving.
Q: What if you don’t have a grill pan?
A: You can roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
Q: Can you use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
A: While it’s best fresh, individual slices make a great lunch the next day. This is a versatile vegetarian dinner recipe for various occasions.
Q: How do you prevent the pizza dough from sticking?
A: Use plenty of flour on your work surface and hands when rolling, and ensure your baking sheet is well-oiled or lined with parchment paper. If using a pizza stone, dust it lightly with cornmeal.
Q: Can you add protein to this pizza?
A: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chickpeas or crumbled plant-based sausage after grilling the vegetables.