Recipe for Whole-Wheat Vegetable Pizza (with Shortcut Options!)

Experience satisfying, cheesy pizza on a wholesome whole-wheat crust. This recipe turns a beloved classic into an everyday indulgence that’s good for your health and less costly than ordering in. Topped with an array of colorful vegetables and gooey mozzarella cheese atop a nutritious whole wheat crust, this pizza offers a flavorful and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

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There are plenty of other options if you don’t have time to bake a yeast-based crust, or if you’re not a baker. Just use whole-wheat crust from the store, whole-grain English muffin or bagel halves, or whole-wheat sliced bread. Gluten-free and grain-free crust options include cauliflower crusts made with cauliflower and cheese, as well as bases like portobello mushrooms. 

Add any vegetable toppings you like. You may also enjoy low-fat diced chicken breast or turkey. For a more filling meal, try serving it with a side salad or fresh fruit.

Recipe for Whole-Wheat Vegetable Pizza

‍Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2.25 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 packet (2.25 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water with honey or maple syrup. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
5. In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
8. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
9. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
12. Add the cherry tomatoes, spinach, red bell pepper, and red onion as toppings.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
14. Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Nutrition information per serving: calories: 250 kcal; total fat: 8 g; total carbohydrates: 34 g; sugar: 6 g; fiber: 5 g; protein: 13 g; sodium: 350 mg; cholesterol: 15 mg

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