Healthy Cauliflower Pizza: Delicious Gluten-Free Recipe!
Ahoy there, my fellow food enthusiasts! As a nutritionist cum food blogger, I always emphasize the importance of eating healthy and staying fit. Who said that healthy eating has to be bland and boring? With my dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust recipe, you can have your pizza and eat it too!
Have you ever experienced the woes of waiting for your favorite pizza delivery guy who is always late? Or have you ever tried to make your own pizza crust only to realize that it is not as easy as you thought it would be? Fear not, me hearties! I come bearing a recipe that will simplify your life and satisfy your cravings in equal measure.
By using cauliflower as the base for the crust, we are boosting the nutritional value of our pizza while keeping it gluten-free and low carb. The best part? You won’t even miss the dairy, as this crust is completely dairy-free. So, whether you’re vegan or simply lactose intolerant, this recipe is perfect for you.
Follow along with me and let’s make a mouth-watering cauliflower pizza that is sure to impress your friends and family. But beware, once you’ve tasted this delicious creation, you may never go back to regular pizza crusts again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My darlings, have you found yourself drooling over the sight of a gooey, cheesy pizza only to remember that it’s not in line with your dietary restrictions? Fear not! I am here to tell you that this dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust will surpass all your wildest dreams.
Firstly, let me mention the benefits of this glorious pizza crust. It’s gluten-free, grain-free and low carb, making it a healthy and guilt-free option for those watching their waistlines. Additionally, it’s made with cauliflower rice as the main ingredient, which is filled with nutrients like vitamins C and K, B-complex vitamins, and fiber.
Now, let me paint a picture of what you can expect from this crust. It comes out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with a delightful flavor profile enhanced by dried oregano, garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes. After you sink your teeth into this pizza slice you’ll find yourself thinking “wowza”!
The best part is that this crust is incredibly versatile – dress it up however you like! Whether it’s cheeseless with roasted veggies or piled high with plant-based protein and vegan cheese alternatives – the choice is yours.
I promise you’ll love this recipe even if you’re not following any dietary restrictions. Trust me when I say this – once you try this tasty crust, you won’t be able to go back to your old ways. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you for it!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering and healthy cauliflower pizza crust. You can easily find most of these ingredients in your pantry or the grocery store:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (or 4 cups of frozen cauliflower rice)
- 2 pasture-raised eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons salt
For the crust, you can use any of these flours:
* Almond flour (2 cups)
* Coconut flour (1 cup)
* Oat flour (2 cups)
You can also make your own flour by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until it resembles fine grains. Other ingredients include:
* Ground chia or ground flax seeds (4 Tablespoons mixed with 1 cup water for vegan and egg-free options)
* Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
* Sea salt (1/4 teaspoon)
With these healthy and organic ingredients, you can create a dairy-free, gluten-free and grain-free pizza crust that’s perfect for everyone— vegans, paleo enthusiasts, low-carb followers or those who just want to eat more veggies!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all required ingredients, let’s get started with making our delicious pizza crust.
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Firstly, preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Then, wash the 1 medium head of cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem from it. Cut the cauliflower florets into small pieces and place them in a food processor. Pulse them until you get a texture similar to that of rice.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower Rice
Place the cauliflower rice in a large microwave-safe bowl and microwave it for about 8 minutes or until it becomes soft. Alternatively, you can also cook it on the stovetop in a medium-sized pan over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
Once cooked, allow the cauliflower rice to cool down before handling it further.
Step 3: Create the Pizza Dough
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of cooked cauliflower rice with 1 beaten egg, 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined.
Next, add in either 1 cup of almond flour or coconut flour and stir it well until it forms a ball-shaped dough.
Step 4: Roll and Bake
Now that our pizza dough is ready, sprinkle some flour on a flat surface and roll out the dough into your preferred shape and thickness. It should be around ½ inch (1 cm) thick.
Transfer the pizza crust to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for around 20-25 minutes or until crisp and golden brown in color, depending on how thick it is.
And there you have it – a delicious and healthy cauliflower crust pizza!
Substitutions and Variations
Listen up, folks! Don’t hesitate to put your twist on this cauliflower pizza crust recipe. Don’t be constrained by the ingredients list – let your imagination run wild! Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Almond flour: If nuts are a no-go, coconut flour makes a great substitute for almond flour. Just keep in mind that coconut flour is much more absorbent than almond flour, so use less of it.
– Dairy-free cheese: You can sprinkle your dairy-free cheese shreds on top of the pizza once you’ve added your toppings. Alternatively, if you have avocado, hummus or pesto in the fridge, spreading a dollop of them over the crust will kick up the taste and texture of your pizza.
– Veggies: Be creative with what you top your gluten-, dairy-, and egg-free pizza with. Kale, broccoli, spinach or even portobello mushrooms add extra taste and health values to your meal.
– Ground Flax or Chia Seeds: Flax and chia seeds make good flax eggs alternatives. One tablespoon of seed mixed with three tablespoons of hot water serves as one egg because they gelatinize quickly to create a sticky binder for the pizza crust.
– Roasted Cauliflower Crust: Not in the mood for cauliflower rice? If you’ve got big florets at home, roast them until they’re golden brown before processing them in a food processor for a crust that’ll have great texture and flavor.
Make sure to experiment until you find that unique recipe that meets all your nutritional requirements and cravings. Remember, cooking is an art so don’t be afraid to get creative and embrace it!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust is ready, it’s time to serve it up and dig in! This crust is the perfect base for any pizza toppings you desire. Whether you prefer classic flavors like tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil or more adventurous toppings like roasted veggies, pesto, and chicken or tofu crumbles – the possibilities are endless.
Pair this healthy organic and gluten-free cauliflower crust pizza with a salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and balsamic dressing for a well-rounded meal. The tender crust pairs perfectly with the crisp salad to give you a satisfying texture contrast in every bite. Additionally, this recipe goes great with a simple side dish such as roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
If you’re entertaining guests who follow specific dietary needs like vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free, this pizza is the perfect crowd-pleaser. Serve it with some refreshing drinks like watermelon juice or lemonade for an afternoon treat!
Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination. This versatile cauliflower crust pairs well with any topping your heart desires!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Well, my dear friends, I always believe that preparation is the key to success. That’s why I am so excited to give you some tips on how to make and store this dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust ahead of time. It’ll save you time and hassle in your busy schedule.
If you’re short on time but want to enjoy a delicious pizza night with the family, this recipe is perfect to prepare beforehand, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or even frozen for longer storage.
When making the crust ahead of time, bake it partially first. Then let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container before refrigerating or freezing. If refrigerated, it can last up to 4 days. If frozen, it will typically last for about 1-2 months.
To reheat the crust after storagef, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for around 10-12 minutes for refrigerated crusts or 15-20 minutes for frozen ones until they are heated through and crispy.
And there you have it, my friends! Your homemade pizza night just got easier and tastier with this easy make-ahead, storing and reheating method!
Tips for Perfect Results
If you’re looking to achieve the perfect crust, there are some key tips to keep in mind. Here are a few tricks that will ensure your dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust comes out delicious and crispy every time:
1. Squeeze Out the Liquid: To prevent a soggy crust, be sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked cauliflower before mixing the ingredients together. Use a clean dish towel or cheesecloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. Don’t Skip the Egg: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and creating a sturdy crust. You can try using a flax or chia egg as a substitute, but the results may not be as crisp.
3. Add Enough Flour: The flour helps to absorb moisture and create structure in the crust. Be sure to use enough almond flour or coconut flour so that your dough doesn’t end up too sticky.
4. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for pasture-raised eggs and organic cauliflower florets for the best taste and texture.
5. Preheat Your Oven: A hot oven is key to achieving a crispy crust. Preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before baking your pizza.
6. Bake on Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet or pizza stone, which will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
7. Keep Toppings Light: Since this is a cauliflower pizza crust, it’s important to let it shine! Don’t overload your toppings or you risk weighing down the crust and making it soggy.
8. Let it Cool Before Slicing: Allow your pizza to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into it with a sharp pizza cutter. This will help set the crust and prevent any toppings from sliding off.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust!
FAQ
Now it’s time to answer some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about this dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust recipe. I understand that making a crust out of cauliflower can be confusing and intimidating at first, but don’t worry; with these answers, you’ll have much more confidence in the kitchen!
Does cauliflower pizza crust contain dairy?
This recipe features a dairy-free crust made from a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. It has a satisfying crunch and is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of frozen cauliflower rice. The beauty of this crust is that it can be customized with any toppings you desire.
Is Caulipower crust dairy-free?
The Plain Cauliflower Pizza Crusts are an excellent base for those who want to create their own dairy-free pizza variations.
Why is my cauliflower pizza crust soggy?
When using cauliflower to make pizza crust, it is crucial to manage its moisture content. A high level of moisture in the cauliflower can ruin the crust by making it soggy and weak.
What is vegan cauliflower crust made of?
Let’s get started on making a delicious and healthy gluten-free and dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust! First off, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cauliflower rice with ground chia, water, almond flour, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, sea salt and garlic powder. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s a smooth and consistent mixture. Take the dough and shape it into a ball with your hands. Then, place it onto a piece of parchment paper that’s big enough to fit your baking tray or pizza stone.
Is cauliflower crust pizza really healthier?
When it comes to choosing between cauliflower crust and traditional crust for your pizza, it all comes down to personal preference. While cauliflower crust offers more protein and fiber, it also contains higher amounts of fat and cholesterol. So, it’s important to consider your dietary needs before making a selection.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza crust. With gluten-free and grain-free options, this recipe is perfect for people with dietary restrictions or those looking for a healthier pizza option.
By using cauliflower rice, almond flour, coconut flour, and ground chia seeds or flaxseeds you can make a crispy and flavorful crust that is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. Whether you are vegan, paleo, keto or simply trying to eat healthier, this recipe offers something for everyone.
So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t regret it! It’s easy to make and the result is a crispy and flavorful crust that will satisfy even the most discerning palette. Say goodbye to boring old pizza crusts and hello to the new kid on the block: dairy-free cauliflower pizza crust!
Dairy Free Cauliflower Pizza Crust Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium sized head cauliflower, should yield close to 3 cups once processed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 shakes crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons almond meal
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Place a pizza stone in the oven, or baking sheet if you don't have a pizza stone. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. On a cutting board, place a large piece of parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking oil or brush the parchment with olive oil.
- Wash and throughly dry a small head of cauliflower. Don't get one the size of your head unless you are planning on making 2 pizzas. Cut off the florets, you don't need much stem. Just stick with the florets. Pulse in your food processor for about 30 seconds, until you get powdery snow like cauliflower. See above photo. You should end up with about 3 cups cauliflower "snow". Place the cauliflower in a microwave safe bowl and cover. Microwave for 4 minutes. Dump cooked cauliflower onto a clean tea towel and allow to cool for a bit before attempting the next step.
- Once cauliflower is cool enough to handle, wrap it up in the dish towel and wring the water out of it. You want to squeeze out as much water as possible. This will ensure you get a chewy pizza like crust instead of a crumbly mess.
- Dumped cauliflower into a bowl. Now add all your spices, your almond meal, your nutritional yeast (if using), and your olive oil. Mix the mixture to incorporate all the ingredients. Now add your egg and mix away again. Hands tend to work best.
- Once mixed together, use your hands to form the dough into a crust on your oiled parchment paper. Pat it down thoroughly, you want it nice and tightly formed together. Don't make it too thick or thin either.
- Using a cutting board slide the parchment paper onto your hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown and the edges crisp up. Remove from oven.