As I diced fresh broccoli and crumbled feta, I couldn’t help but smile at the vibrant colors filling my kitchen. This Green Pizza with Pesto is my go-to for quick weeknight dinners, bursting with the goodness of healthy vegetables and zesty flavors. Not only is this dish a delightful twist on traditional pizza, but it’s also simple to whip up—perfect for anyone looking to trade in fast food for something far more delicious at home. With the creamy richness of feta and the earthy goodness of artichokes nestled atop a crispy crust, every bite is a little piece of joy. Plus, you can easily customize it to your taste with various toppings and sauces! Who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and make this delicious masterpiece?

Why is this Green Pizza amazing?

Healthful Ingredients: Packed with vibrant veggies like broccoli and artichokes, this pizza is a nutrient powerhouse.

Versatile Toppings: Feel free to customize with your favorite greens or proteins, like grilled chicken!

Simple Preparation: Whip up your homemade pesto in minutes, making this dish a breeze for even busy weeknights.

Undeniably Delicious: The combination of creamy feta and zesty pesto creates a flavor explosion in every bite, sure to please every palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: Bake this beauty and enjoy the heavenly smell wafting through your kitchen, bringing everyone to the table.

Pairing Perfection: Serve it alongside a light salad or some of our Roasted Green Beans for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet health-conscious.

Green Pizza with Pesto Ingredients

• Prepare to delight your taste buds with this vibrant dish!

For the Pesto

Walnuts – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; substitute with pine nuts or pecans for a different taste.
Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
Basil leaves – Gives a fresh, herbaceous note; alternatives include spinach or arugula for a different green flavor.
Spinach leaves – Contributes to the vibrant green color and nutrition; can replace with kale if preferred.
Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and enhances umami flavor; use pecorino for a different twist.
Olive oil – Needed for blending pesto and adding richness; extra virgin is ideal for taste.
Kosher salt & pepper – Enhances all flavors; adjust to personal taste.

For the Pizza

Broccoli – Adds a crunchy vegetative texture and nutritional value; can substitute with asparagus or green beans.
Pizza dough – The base of the pizza; use store-bought for convenience or homemade for better flavor.
Artichoke hearts – Provides a tangy, slightly sweet flavor; fresh artichokes can be used if available.
Mozzarella cheese – Gives creaminess and stretchiness to the pizza; substitute with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Feta cheese – Introduces a salty bite; can be replaced with goat cheese for a tangier option.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Green Pizza with Pesto

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet or pizza pan by giving it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray or brushing it with a bit of olive oil. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust for your Green Pizza with Pesto.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
In a medium skillet, add the walnuts and toast them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Once toasted, remove the walnuts from the skillet and let them cool completely before adding them to your pesto mixture for that nutty crunch.

Step 3: Make the Pesto
In a food processor, combine the cooled walnuts, minced garlic, fresh basil leaves, and spinach. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped. Add the Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper; then blend until the pesto reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This will be the vibrant sauce for your Green Pizza.

Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli
While you make the pesto, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Place the florets in a microwave-safe bowl with a sprinkle of water. Cover and microwave for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp. Drain any excess water, and set the broccoli aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Roll Out the Pizza Dough
Take your pizza dough and place it on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin or your hands, stretch or press the dough to fit your prepared baking sheet or pizza pan. Aim for an even thickness. Once stretched, transfer the dough to your pan and spread half of the flavorful pesto evenly over the surface.

Step 6: Layer the Toppings
Sprinkle about ¾ of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto-coated dough. Next, layer on the microwaved broccoli and artichoke hearts, ensuring that the veggies are distributed evenly across your Green Pizza. Finally, add the remaining mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melted finish.

Step 7: Bake the Pizza
Carefully place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted to perfection. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning, and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once baked, remove the Green Pizza with Pesto from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Using a sharp pizza cutter, slice it into wedges. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy dinner at home!

Expert Tips for Green Pizza with Pesto

Dough Flexibility: Allow your pizza dough to rest if it shrinks while rolling out; this relaxes the gluten for a smoother stretch.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh garlic and basil for the pesto; they amplify the vibrant flavors and aroma of your Green Pizza.
Cooking Broccoli: Avoid overcooking the broccoli in the microwave to maintain its crunch and bright green color, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or vegan alternatives for a personalized twist on your Green Pizza with Pesto.
Pesto Consistency: Adjust the olive oil in your pesto for your desired thickness; some prefer it chunkier while others like it smooth for easy spreading.

Green Pizza with Pesto Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and personalize this Green Pizza with Pesto to suit your palate!

Gluten-Free Crust: Replace traditional dough with cauliflower crust for a light and gluten-free base.
For those sensitive to gluten, a cauliflower crust offers a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the toppings beautifully.
Protein-Packed Option: Add grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier pizza experience.
The addition of protein not only enhances the flavor profile but also transforms this dish into a filling meal for everyone at the table.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh cilantro or parsley in your pesto for a unique twist.
These herbs provide a fresh zing and allow you to tailor the pesto flavor to perfectly match your mood or harvest.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that elevates the flavor.
A little kick can turn an ordinary pizza night into a lively dinner occasion, sure to impress your guests.
Extra Veggies: Load up your pizza with zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for additional texture and taste.
This is a fantastic way to make the dish even more colorful and packed with nutrients, catering to both veggie lovers and skeptics alike.
Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy richness.
The creaminess of goat cheese can elevate the flavor of your pizza, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that makes each bite unforgettable.
Nut-Free Pesto: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds in the pesto for a nut-free version.
This variation maintains that wonderful texture and taste without allergens, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.

To take your culinary adventures further, consider pairing this pizza with our delightful Campbells Green Bean Casserole for a simple yet delicious side! Enjoy layering flavors and discovering new variations that suit your family and friends’ tastes!

Make Ahead Options

These Green Pizza with Pesto are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness even on the busiest of nights! You can prepare the pesto up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. Additionally, the broccoli can be prepped by steaming and cooling it ahead of time; just refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza, roll out the dough and assemble with the pesto and toppings before baking as instructed. This way, you’ll savor every delicious bite without the stress of last-minute cooking!

What to Serve with Green Pizza with Pesto

Pairing this vibrant pizza with complementary sides is an excellent way to elevate your meal experience.

Crispy Green Salad: A light mix of arugula, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pizza.
Roasted Veggies: Opt for a medley of asparagus and bell peppers drizzled in olive oil. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting, savory side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce on your plate.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will brighten the meal with its crisp acidity, enhancing the earthy flavors of the toppings.
Zesty Lemonade: A homemade lemonade, with just the right amount of tartness, can refresh your palate and cleanse the taste buds between bites.
Fruit Tart: Conclude your meal on a sweet note with a light fruit tart. The fruity flavors will contrast nicely with the savory pizza while providing a lovely presentation.

How to Store and Freeze Green Pizza with Pesto

Fridge: Store leftover Green Pizza with Pesto in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pizza by wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. Use within 1–2 months for best quality.

Reheating: Thaw frozen pizza overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake directly from frozen; just increase the baking time to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.

Keep Fresh: To prevent sogginess, avoid stacking the slices in the container and separate them with parchment paper if storing multiple layers.

Green Pizza with Pesto Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe vegetables for this pizza?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, choose broccoli that has a vibrant green color and firm florets without any dark spots. For artichokes, pick tender ones with tightly packed leaves. Fresh basil should have a fragrant aroma and bright green leaves. Avoid any wilting or browning on the leaves, as this indicates age.

How should I store leftover Green Pizza with Pesto?
Leftover Green Pizza with Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent condensation. When ready to enjoy again, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that crispy crust, which is key to enjoyable leftovers!

Can I freeze the Green Pizza with Pesto?
Certainly! To freeze, first allow the pizza to cool completely. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This way, the pizza can be stored for up to 1–2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or bake directly from frozen, extending the baking time to ensure it’s fully heated.

What should I do if my pizza dough shrinks while rolling it out?
Oh no, dough shrinkage can be frustrating! If this happens, let the dough rest for about 10–15 minutes covered with a clean kitchen towel. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll or stretch without bouncing back. Just take your time, and you’ll get a beautiful base for your Green Pizza!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! Common allergens in this recipe include walnuts, dairy (from cheese), and gluten (in pizza dough). If you’re preparing this for someone with allergies, you can easily customize it. Substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds, use gluten-free pizza dough, and explore dairy-free cheese options to cater to your needs while still enjoying the delicious flavors of this Green Pizza with Pesto.