If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy, and comforting alternative to traditional pizza, look no further than this best vegan cauliflower pizza recipe. This recipe combines the crispiness of a perfectly baked cauliflower crust with a bounty of fresh, vibrant vegan toppings that will satisfy any pizza lover’s cravings.
Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just want to sneak some extra veggies into your meal, this pizza is a game-changer that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Cauliflower crusts have surged in popularity due to their low-carb nature and ability to hold up well under toppings, and this recipe takes it a step further by incorporating wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
The crust is crispy yet tender, and the toppings are customizable, making it an ideal canvas for your favorite vegan cheeses, vegetables, and herbs. Ready to impress family and friends with a homemade pizza that’s both nutritious and utterly scrumptious?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cauliflower pizza recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite without the guilt. Here’s why it stands out:
- Healthy & Low Carb: The cauliflower crust reduces carbs significantly compared to traditional dough.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan: Perfect for people with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking plant-based options.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can nail this recipe.
- Customizable: Top it with your favorite veggies, vegan cheeses, or herbs to make it truly your own.
- Crispy & Flavorful: Achieves a golden, crispy crust and a rich, satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups grated)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 6 tablespoons water (for flax egg)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or any gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (shredded, plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
Equipment
- Food processor or box grater
- Large microwave-safe bowl or steamer
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Parchment paper
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice. If you don’t have a food processor, grate the cauliflower using a box grater.
- Cook the cauliflower rice: Place the grated cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, steam it on the stovetop until tender but not mushy. Let it cool slightly.
- Drain excess moisture: Transfer the cooked cauliflower onto a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Fold over and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for a crisp crust.
- Make the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water and stir. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Mix the crust ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained cauliflower, flax egg, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, almond flour, and shredded vegan mozzarella. Mix thoroughly to form a dough-like mixture.
- Form the crust: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the dough and press firmly into a round pizza crust shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure the edges are slightly thicker to hold toppings better.
- Bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the crust for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch. To get extra crispiness, you can brush the crust lightly with olive oil before baking.
- Add sauce and toppings: Remove the crust from the oven. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle with additional vegan mozzarella and arrange your sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives on top.
- Bake the pizza: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and the toppings are cooked to your liking.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pizza, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
“Make sure to squeeze out every bit of moisture from the cauliflower rice. The drier it is, the crispier your crust will be!”
- Cheese alternatives: Use vegan cheddar or cashew-based cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Herbs: Add fresh rosemary or thyme into the crust mixture for aromatic depth.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for heat.
- Different veggies: Try sautéed spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes as toppings.
- Make it gluten-free: Swap almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Make mini pizzas: Divide the dough into smaller portions and bake mini cauliflower pizzas for parties or snack time.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 210 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Protein | 10 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Sugar | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan cauliflower pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted garlic kale chips. For drinks, serve with a chilled sparkling water infused with fresh cucumber and mint or a light vegan red wine.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.
If you love experimenting with dough, check out my Magic Dough Recipe for more delicious base ideas. For a sweet treat afterward, the Marzipan Challah Recipe is a fantastic vegan dessert option.
Conclusion
This vegan cauliflower pizza recipe is a delightful way to enjoy pizza without the heaviness of traditional dough. It’s packed with flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients that make it a standout choice for anyone looking to eat healthier or follow a plant-based lifestyle.
The crust is crispy, the toppings are fresh, and the overall experience is satisfying and nourishing.
With the flexibility to customize toppings and cheese alternatives, this recipe can become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this pizza delivers.
Don’t forget to experiment with various toppings and share your favorite combinations!
Hungry for more plant-based inspiration? Check out my Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for hearty vegan meals that pack a punch.
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Recipe
Description: A crispy and flavorful vegan cauliflower pizza that's perfect for a healthy meal. Loaded with fresh veggies and dairy-free cheese for a delicious plant-based treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups riced)
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Rice the cauliflower until fine and microwave for 5 minutes.
- Let cauliflower cool, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
- Mix cauliflower with flaxseed + water mixture, almond flour, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Press mixture into a parchment-lined baking sheet forming a 10-inch round crust.
- Bake crust for 15 minutes until golden and firm.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over crust.
- Top with vegan mozzarella, bell peppers, and olives.
- Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and toppings are cooked.
- Slice and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 30 g
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