Arugula pizza is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of fresh veggies, mozzarella cheese, and spicy greens. It’s a healthy twist on traditional pizza, offering a vibrant flavor and a light texture. Arugula adds a unique peppery taste to the pizza, while the mozzarella melts perfectly into the crust. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.
What You Need for Arugula Pizza
To make a delicious arugula pizza, you need just a few simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. The key to making this pizza stand out is using fresh ingredients like mozzarella cheese, olives, tomatoes, and, of course, arugula. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- Mini pizza crust: You can use pita bread, naan, or any mini pizza crust for this recipe. Choose whichever you prefer.
- Pizza sauce: You can either use store-bought pizza sauce or make your own homemade version, which will make the pizza extra special.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shred your mozzarella cheese for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well, so it’s worth taking the extra time to shred it yourself.
- Black olives: If you like black olives, add them to your pizza. If not, feel free to skip them.
- Tomatoes: Dice a tomato and remove the seeds to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
- Fresh arugula: This is the star ingredient, giving your pizza a fresh, peppery kick.
How to Make Arugula Pizza
Making arugula pizza is simple and doesn’t take much time. Follow these easy steps to create a mouth-watering pizza that’s ready in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Crust
First, preheat your oven to 450°F (about 230°C). Place your pizza crust (pita, naan, or another mini crust) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the crust from sticking and make it easier to remove once baked.
Step 2: Add the Toppings
Next, spread your pizza sauce over the crust. Add as much sauce as you like, depending on how saucy you want your pizza. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. If you’re using black olives and diced tomatoes, add them on top of the cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the oven and bake it for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy. Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before adding the final touch: fresh arugula.
Step 4: Add Arugula and Serve
Once the pizza is slightly cooled, top it with a handful of fresh arugula. The heat from the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, releasing its spicy flavor. Slice the pizza into wedges and serve.
Variations to Try with Arugula Pizza
Arugula pizza is highly versatile and can be customized with different toppings to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to make your pizza even more delicious:
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the arugula perfectly.
- Goat cheese: Creamy goat cheese gives the pizza a rich, tangy flavor.
- Ricotta cheese: For a creamy texture, try adding ricotta cheese to your pizza.
- Avocado: Add slices of avocado for a creamy, mild flavor that balances the spicy arugula.
Why Arugula Pizza Is a Healthy Choice
Arugula pizza is a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pizza. The fresh ingredients, including the arugula, tomatoes, and olives, provide a variety of vitamins and nutrients. Arugula, in particular, is rich in antioxidants and has a spicy, peppery taste that adds flavor without the need for extra salt or heavy toppings. By using a simple, unprocessed pizza crust, you can also keep the pizza light and easy to digest. Plus, homemade pizza allows you to control the quality and quantity of ingredients, making it a healthier choice compared to store-bought or fast food pizzas.
Final Thoughts on Arugula Pizza
Arugula pizza is a refreshing and flavorful take on the classic pizza that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal with friends, this pizza is sure to impress. The combination of fresh mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and peppery arugula makes for a truly delicious meal. You can easily personalize it with different toppings to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish that everyone will love.
FAQs
What type of crust works best for arugula pizza?
A thin, crispy crust complements the fresh, peppery flavor of arugula.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough is a quick and easy option for making arugula pizza.
Should I cook the arugula before adding it to the pizza?
No, add fresh arugula after baking for a crisp, vibrant topping.