Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is a perfect blend of flavors that come together in a delicious, easy-to-make meal. This pizza is a vegetarian twist on the traditional Mexican pizza, making it a great choice for those who prefer plant-based dishes. It combines lentils, tortillas, and melted cheese, making it just as tasty and satisfying as any meat-based pizza. If you’re someone who loves the flavors of Mexican cuisine but wants a meat-free option, this recipe is for you!
What Makes Vegetarian Mexican Pizza Special?
Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is a fun and creative way to enjoy Mexican flavors in pizza form. What makes this dish unique is the use of lentils instead of meat. Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein and work just as well as meat in this recipe. When mashed, they resemble beans, which makes them a great addition to a Mexican-style pizza. This recipe is easy to prepare and is perfect for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian pizza lovers.
This homemade version is even better than the ones you might get at a fast food place because it’s fresh and made with simple ingredients that you can control. The recipe is a copycat of the famous Mexican pizza from Taco Bell, so if you’re craving that taste, this is a great alternative.
Ingredients Needed for Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
To make this simple and tasty Vegetarian Mexican Pizza, you will need the following ingredients:
Lentils
Lentils are the main ingredient in this pizza. They are a great substitute for meat, and when mashed, they have a similar texture to refried beans. You can use any type of lentil you prefer, but make sure they are cooked beforehand. You can even use leftover lentils to make this dish!
Enchilada Sauce
Instead of using traditional pizza sauce, enchilada sauce is used in this recipe. It adds a flavorful, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. This swap helps create a true Mexican flavor profile.
Tortillas
For the base of the pizza, you will need small fajita tortillas, about 6 inches in diameter. These tortillas will become crispy when baked and act as the crust for the pizza.
Cheese
Cheddar cheese is the typical choice for this recipe, but you can also use Monterey Jack cheese or a combination of both. The cheese is melted over the top of the pizza, adding creaminess and flavor.
How to Make Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
Follow these simple steps to create your own Vegetarian Mexican Pizza:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with foil. Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Lentil Mixture: In a food processor or blender, combine the cooked lentils with 2 tablespoons of enchilada sauce. Blend until the mixture is smooth and thick, resembling the texture of refried beans.
- Bake the Tortillas: Place 4 tortillas on the prepared cookie sheet. Bake them for a few minutes until the bottoms are crispy. Then, flip them over and bake for another few minutes. Be sure to watch them closely, as they can burn quickly.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread half of the mashed lentil mixture on one tortilla. Top it with another tortilla to create a sandwich. Repeat this step for the remaining lentils and tortillas.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spread a tablespoon of enchilada sauce on top of each tortilla sandwich and sprinkle with cheese. Place the pizzas back in the oven and bake until the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the pizzas from the oven. Top with shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes for extra freshness and crunch.
This recipe can easily be doubled to make more servings, so it’s perfect for a family meal or a party.
Why You Should Try Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is not only delicious but also healthy. Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this a nutritious meal choice. The crispy tortillas, spicy enchilada sauce, and melted cheese all come together to create a pizza that’s full of flavor.
This dish is also customizable. You can add your favorite toppings, such as olives, onions, or bell peppers, to make it your own. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a fun, healthy alternative to traditional pizza, this recipe will hit the spot.
The best part is that this recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time or ingredients. In under an hour, you can have a tasty, homemade Mexican pizza that everyone will enjoy. So, next time you’re craving something different for dinner, give this Vegetarian Mexican Pizza a try!
Conclusion
Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is a fun and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Mexican cuisine into the world of pizza. It’s simple to make, full of delicious flavors, and a perfect alternative to meat-based pizzas. The combination of crispy tortillas, hearty lentils, spicy enchilada sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouth-watering dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re vegetarian or not, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try today and enjoy a homemade version of a fast food favorite!
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use regular unsalted butter if you prefer less salt.
What can I use if I don’t have apple butter?
You can substitute apple butter with applesauce or apple jam mixed with a bit of cinnamon.
How do I store leftover pull-apart bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.