Introduction:
If you’re searching for a delightful and hearty way to enjoy your vegetables, look no further than the Cast Iron Veggie Pizza. This dish is a wonderful twist on the traditional pizza, focusing on a variety of fresh, colorful vegetables that are not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Cooking the pizza in a cast iron skillet ensures a perfectly crispy crust, while the combination of sautéed and fresh vegetables provides a rich, satisfying flavor profile. Perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a solo indulgence, this veggie pizza is a versatile dish that caters to all tastes. Let’s explore how to make this delectable pizza step-by-step.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Prepare the Toppings:
- Slice the Vegetables: While the dough is rising, prepare the toppings. Thinly slice the red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, mushrooms, and zucchini. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives.
- Sauté Some Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms for about 5 minutes until they are slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up.
- Prepare the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a circle that is slightly larger than your cast iron skillet.
- Transfer the Dough: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and lightly oil it. Transfer the dough to the skillet, pressing it up the sides to form a crust.
- Add the Sauce: Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over the sauce.
- Add the Vegetables: Arrange the sautéed bell peppers, red onion, mushrooms, sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and black olives over the cheese. For a little heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Bake the Pizza:
- Bake: Place the skillet back in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Cool: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice the pizza and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Cast Iron Veggie Pizza:
- Preheat the Skillet:
- Preheating the cast iron skillet ensures a crispy crust. Be careful when handling the hot skillet.
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Fresh vegetables will provide the best flavor and texture. Feel free to use any seasonal veggies available.
- Balance the Toppings:
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings, as it can make the crust soggy. Spread the toppings evenly for the best result.
- Customize Your Pizza:
- Feel free to customize the toppings according to your preference. Add other veggies like spinach, artichokes, or even some crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.
Health Benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich: This veggie pizza is packed with a variety of vegetables, offering a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants.
- High in Fiber: The vegetables and whole ingredients contribute to a high fiber content, promoting digestive health.
- Healthy Fats: Using olive oil and cheese in moderation provides healthy fats that are essential for the body.
Conclusion:
Cast Iron Veggie Pizza is a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a comforting and delicious meal. The crispy crust, savory tomato sauce, melty cheese, and fresh toppings create a symphony of flavors that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make. Enjoy this wholesome and tasty pizza with family and friends, and relish the combination of fresh ingredients and home-cooked goodness.