Description
This High Protein Spinach Artichoke Pizza is a nutritious and flavorful twist on the classic pizza, featuring a whole wheat crust topped with sautéed spinach and artichokes, creamy low-fat cream cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal or a protein-packed lunch.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 whole wheat pizza dough (12 oz)
Toppings
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking a crispy pizza crust.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the whole wheat pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter, forming the base for your pizza.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach and artichokes until they are wilted and tender, enhancing their flavor and reducing moisture.
- Make Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Pizza: Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then top with the sautéed spinach and artichokes. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Drain and chop artichoke hearts well to avoid excess moisture.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the cheese set.