Who Says Pizza is Junk Food?

Take the guilt out of pizza night with a low-carb, gluten-free cauliflower pizza crust that’s packed with veggies and full of flavor. Cauliflower reduces to the consistency of rice in a food processor and comes together like ‘dough’ with an egg and Parmesan cheese — both of which boost protein content. Italian seasoning adds flavor. Compared to a traditional wheat crust, cauliflower pizza crust has double the fiber and protein and fewer calories and carbs.

Top a cauliflower crust as you would any pizza. Spread it with zesty marinara sauce and layer with sauteed seasonal veggies and a sprinkle of cheese. Or top with basil pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a classic Caprese pizza. Chimichurri, an Argentine sauce made of fresh green herbs and garlic, is great on pizza with goat cheese. Other creative combos include spinach, pineapple, and banana pepper; caramelized onion and ham; fig, prosciutto, and ricotta; and broccoli, tomato, and feta.  Borrow inspiration from your local pizzeria or use your imagination!

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped (about 5 cups)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan or Asiago cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil or avocado oil for brushing

Directions:

1. Set the oven to 400 degrees F and preheat a pizza stone or clean baking sheet.

2. Place the cauliflower in a food processor and pulse until finely ground to the consistency of small beads similar to rice or couscous.

3. Spread the cauliflower in a thin layer on a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes to dry. Remove and allow to cool. Increase the oven temperature to 475 degrees F.

4. Whisk the egg in a large bowl then add the cauliflower, cheese, spices, a pinch of sea salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Mix well.
5. Line a cutting board or cookie sheet with parchment paper and brush with olive or avocado oil. Form a thin 12-inch circle with the dough mixture. Slide the parchment onto the preheated pizza stone and bake until barely golden and darker at the edges, about 13-15 minutes.
6. Remove the crust from the oven and add your favorite toppings!