Fresh Spinach Pizza
Fresh spinach pizza has become a staple in my home, especially during those busy weeknights when I want something wholesome and easy to whip up. Spinach isn’t just nutritious; it adds a unique earthiness and depth to the dish.
Equipment
- large skillet
- Oven
- Pizza Peel
- Rolling Pin
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- Here's what you'll need for your fresh spinach pizza slightly reworded and jazzed up for both flavor and flair:
- - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- - 1 clove of garlic sliced thinly
- - 2 teaspoons of Italian herb blend Greek seasoning is fine too
- - A pinch of table salt
- - A dash of black pepper
- - 10 cups of baby spinach roughly 1-10 ounce package
- - Additional flour for dusting
- - 1 pound of prepared pizza dough whole grain is a great choice at room temperature
- - 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce I recommend Rao's for quality
- - 6 ounces of low-moisture mozzarella or a flavorful fontina shredded (about three-quarters of a cup)
- - 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese divided
- - A pinch of red pepper flakes optional, but recommended for a kick!
- Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and a handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First things first, you’ll want to get your oven ready. Place the oven rack in the center, and if you're using a pizza stone, make sure to set it up on the rack while preheating. You’ll want to preheat your oven to a toasty 500°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that wonderful golden crust that we all crave!
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
- Get a large non-stick skillet on medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Heat until it shimmers—this is when you know it's ready. Toss in the sliced garlic and stir, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will hit you, and you’ll be ready for those greens! Add the baby spinach, Italian herb blend, salt, and pepper. Stir gently, allowing the spinach to wilt and the water to evaporate—this should take around 3 minutes. It’s all about getting that perfect, tender spinach mix to layer onto your pizza.
Step 3: Cool the Spinach
- Once the spinach is wilted, transfer it onto a paper towel-lined plate. This helps absorb any excess moisture while it cools off, giving you about 10 minutes to focus on your dough.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough using a rolling pin. Aim to shape it into about a 12-inch circle. Don’t sweat it if it’s not a perfect circle; rustic is charming! Once you have it roughly shaped, transfer the dough onto a large piece of parchment paper set on a cookie sheet or a pizza peel.
Step 5: Create the Crust
- Now, let's form the crust! Use your fingers to press outward to create a raised edge around the outer rim, about 1 inch thick. This part is crucial as it holds all your delicious toppings in.
Step 6: Spread the Alfredo Sauce
- Grab your Alfredo sauce and spread it evenly over the pizza dough, leaving the 1-inch border untouched. This creamy layer will be the base for all your toppings!
Step 7: Add the Spinach
- Using tongs, distribute the cooled spinach mixture evenly over the sauce. This will be your flavorful filling.
Step 8: Cheese It Up
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese generously over the spinach, followed by the crumbled feta. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top too—this is where things get exciting!
Step 9: Bake the Pizza
- Here comes the fun part! Carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or directly onto the oven rack. If you’re using a baking pan, just place it in the center of the oven. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch closely—you're looking for those beautiful golden edges and melty cheese.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a minute. Slice it up, serve it to family or friends, and prepare for a chorus of “Mmm!” as you all enjoy your creation.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients, especially the spinach and cheese, makes a huge difference in flavor. Always opt for fresh.
- Rolling Out Dough: If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your surface and hands. Keep it moving to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker crust, shape the dough into a smaller circle. It will rise more during baking.
- Cheese Choices: Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses. Goat cheese or a blend of cheeses can add complexity.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate your pizza!
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!