Stringy melted cheese, robust tomato sauce, fresh herbs and bright toppings are all a must for the BEST in pizzas. The Margherita Pizza, named after the Queen of Margherita of Savoy, is a perfect example of this, with its Italian-colored ingredients. Despite these great features we can’t forget the foundation of it all: the crust! Whether you like it thin or crispy, deep dish or cheese-filled, no one can deny that a great crust is a MUST. The gluten-free crust used in this recipe is vegan, non-GMO and simply delicious; thus proving that simplicity is always best. Use this recipe for an at home movie, kids party or mini social.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 - 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
4 Tbsp. Homemade Tomato Sauce
1 Plum Tomato large, chopped
5 Leaves, Spinach, sliced
2 Homemade Roasted Garlic Cloves, sliced
9 Mozzarella slices, fresh
8 Basil Leaves, fresh
1 tsp Olive Oil
¼ tsp Onion powder
1 (9”) Gluten-Free Pizza Crust (courtesy of Still Riding Foods)
Prep:
Wash the tomato, slice thinly (depending on your preference), also slice the roasted garlic and spinach leaves. Place all items to the side. If your mozzarella is pre-sliced and/or packaged in water, remove water by using a handtowel and pressing lightly on the cheese until as much water has been removed as possible. Removing the water allows the cheese to melt and have a creamy texture.
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees for 30 minutes. Unwrap crust and cover with olive oil. Place on a pizza pan and into the oven for 40 seconds, this will add crispiness to the crust. Assemble the pizza in the following order: tomato sauce, cheese, spinach, fresh tomatoes and roasted garlic. Smooth a thin layer of tomato sauce on the crust, leaving ½ inch uncovered. Place mozzarella slices evenly, allowing space between each (this will allow space to expand when melting), place spinach near the center and place the tomatoes clockwise over the cheese. Place the roasted garlic in the center of the pizza and sprinkle the garlic powder atop as a final touch. Let pizza bake for 15 – 20 minutes depending on if you want your cheese slightly charred or a more crispy crust (I like my cheese a bit charred). Remove from heat, let cool and garnish with fresh basil.
Servings: 1
Tips:
Serve with olive oil and pizza sauce for dipping
Basil can be torn for added flavor
The roasted garlic is a savory, more smoky alternative to fresh garlic
Store-bought items can be used in place of homemade