Unlock the magic of this unique, delicious, and nutritious pizza recipe - perfect pesto pizza with sweet potato crust. Packed with vibrant flavors from the homemade pesto and a crust made from nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, this recipe promises to take your pizza game to the next level.
Photos of Perfect Pesto Pizza With Sweet Potato Crust Recipe
While most ingredients for this recipe might be readily available in your kitchen, a few might require a trip to the supermarket. Almond flour and ground flaxseed, used in the crust, are often found in the baking or health food aisle. Cashews and pistachios required for the pesto might be found in the snack aisle. Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro are typically located in the produce section.
Ingredients for Perfect Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
Sweet potatoes: Apart from the crust, these vegetables provide a natural sweetness and a wealth of nutrients.
Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, lending a nutty flavor and aiding in binding the crust together.
Ground flaxseed and flax egg: It's used as a binder and adds a slight nutty flavor, while being a great vegan protein source.
Fresh rosemary: Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to the crust.
Cashews and pistachios: These nuts contribute a creamy texture and rich flavor to the homemade pesto.
Fresh herbs: Basil and cilantro infuse the pesto with a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
Spinach: This leafy green adds extra nutrients and a pop of color to the pesto.
Lemon: The juice adds a tangy balance to the rich nuts and herbs in the pesto.
Olive oil: Helps emulsify the pesto and adds a silky finish to it.
Garlic: Pungent and flavorful, it gives the pesto a savory depth.
Bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and arugula: These fresh veggies make the pizza toppings, offering a contrast in texture and fresh, vibrant flavors.
One reader, Estrella Castle says:
This pesto pizza with sweet potato crust is a game-changer! The crust is hearty and flavorful, and the pesto is so fresh and vibrant. The combination of toppings is a burst of colors and flavors. It's a delightful twist on traditional pizza that's both healthy and delicious. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Perfect Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
How to prepare flax egg: Mix together 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 4 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How to make sweet potato crust: Combine mashed sweet potato, almond flour, flax egg, salt, pepper, dried rosemary, and additional flaxseed in a large bowl. Spread the mixture onto a lined tray and bake until the edges are crisp and golden.
How to prepare green pesto: In a food processor, combine cashews, pistachios, fresh basil, cilantro, spinach, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic cloves, and olive oil. Process until mostly smooth with a bit of texture.
How to assemble and bake the pizza: Spread the pesto on the baked sweet potato crust, then top with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Bake for an additional 5 minutes. Allow the pizza to cool for 10-15 minutes before topping with arugula.
How To Make Pesto Pizza With Sweet Potato Crust
Everybody will love this deliciously healthy pesto pizza with a sweet potato crust that’s baked to crispy perfection, and topped with colorful bell peppers!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Flax Egg:
- 2tbspground flaxseed
- 4tbspwater
For Sweet Potato Crust:
- 3medium sweet potatoes,or large, cooked, mashed
- 1¾cupsalmond flour
- ½tspsalt
- ¼tsppepper
- 1tbspfresh rosemary,chopped
- 1tbspflaxseed,ground
For Green Pesto:
- ½cupcashews
- ½cuppistachio
- 1cupfresh basil,fresh
- ½cupfresh cilantro,fresh
- 2cupsspinach
- 1lemon,juiced
- salt and pepper,to taste
- 3clovesgarlic
- ½cupolive oil
For Toppings:
- bell pepper,sliced
- cherry tomato,sliced
- red onion,thinly sliced
- arugula,fresh
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a 17-inch round or an 18×26-inch rectangular metal tray with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, mix together the flaxseed and water. Let sit for 5 minutes.
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In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, almond flour, flax egg, salt, pepper, dried rosemary, and additional flaxseed. (The mixture will be thick and pasty.)
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Spread the mixture onto the tray and flatten slightly.
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Place the sweet potato crust in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are crisp and golden.
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While the crust is baking, prepare the pesto. Add cashews, pistachios, fresh basil, cilantro, spinach, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic cloves, and olive oil to a food processor.
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Process until mostly smooth with a bit of texture.
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When the pizza crust is done baking, spread the pesto on top, then cover with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
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Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 5 minutes more.
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Allow to cool for 10- to 15 minutes.
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Top with arugala.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 501.71kcal
- Fat: 45.70g
- Saturated Fat: 5.26g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.67g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.35g
- Carbohydrates: 16.00g
- Fiber: 6.74g
- Sugar: 2.95g
- Protein: 13.02g
- Sodium: 264.10mg
- Calcium: 72.26mg
- Potassium: 536.09mg
- Iron: 2.42mg
- Vitamin A: 64.74µg
- Vitamin C: 10.19mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pesto Pizza
When preparing the sweet potato crust, ensure that the sweet potatoes are thoroughly mashed to a smooth consistency. This will help in achieving a uniform and well-structured crust. Also, when spreading the mixture onto the tray, try to maintain an even thickness throughout to ensure even baking. For the pesto, don't over-process the ingredients. Leaving a bit of texture will give your pesto a more interesting and satisfying mouthfeel.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Pesto Pizza Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the sweet potato crust and pesto in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pizza.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of sweet potato crust and pesto and freeze the extra portions for future use.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables for the pizza toppings, saving time and effort.
Organized workspace: Before starting, ensure all ingredients and kitchen tools are readily accessible to streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the sweet potato crust is baking, use that time to prepare the pesto and chop the toppings to maximize efficiency.
Substitute Ingredients For Perfect Pesto Pizza With Sweet Potato Crust Recipe
ground flaxseed - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can be used as a binding agent similar to flaxseed and provide a similar nutritional profile.
almond flour - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative with a slightly different texture and flavor, adding a hint of coconut to the crust.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the crust, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.
cashews - Substitute with pine nuts: Pine nuts have a rich, buttery flavor similar to cashews and work well in pesto, providing a creamy texture and nutty taste.
pistachio - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pistachios, offering a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the pesto.
fresh basil - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the pesto, providing a vibrant green color and a slightly different taste.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh mint: Fresh mint can provide a refreshing and aromatic twist to the pesto, adding a unique flavor to the dish.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, offering a hearty texture and a slightly different flavor to the pesto.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild flavor and a high smoke point for roasting the sweet potato crust.
bell pepper - Substitute with zucchini: Sliced zucchini can be used as a colorful and flavorful alternative to bell peppers, adding a fresh crunch to the pizza.
cherry tomato - Substitute with sundried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes can provide a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor, adding depth to the pizza toppings.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a milder alternative to red onions, offering a delicate flavor and texture to the pizza.
arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can be used as a substitute for arugula, providing a mild and tender green base for the pizza.
How to Beautifully Present This Pesto Pizza
Elevate the sweet potato crust: Create a perfectly round sweet potato crust and ensure it is evenly baked to achieve a golden, crispy edge.
Artfully arrange the toppings: Carefully place the vibrant bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on top of the pesto-covered crust.
Garnish with fresh arugula: Sprinkle a generous amount of vibrant, fresh arugula over the pizza, adding a pop of color and a peppery, fresh flavor.
Drizzle with a touch of olive oil: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Present on a sleek platter: Serve the pesto pizza on a sophisticated, minimalist platter to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
- Oven: Used for baking and roasting food items.
- Parchment paper: Used to line baking trays and prevent food from sticking.
- Food processor: Used to blend and process ingredients into a smooth consistency.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Baking tray: Used for baking and roasting food items in the oven.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing and preparing small quantities of ingredients.
- Spatula: Used for spreading and smoothing the sweet potato crust on the baking tray.
- Knife: Used for cutting and preparing the vegetables and sweet potatoes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Pestle and mortar: Used for crushing and grinding herbs and spices.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
- Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label with the date and contents.
- Frozen pizza will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat refrigerated pizza, place it on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- To reheat frozen pizza, unwrap and place it on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also thaw the pizza in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- For best results, reheat the pizza in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the texture of the crust.
- If you have leftover pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, spoon the pesto into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or container.
How To Reheat Leftover Pesto Pizza
To reheat leftover perfect pesto pizza with sweet potato crust, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the sweet potato crust while ensuring the pesto and toppings are warm and flavorful.
Alternatively, you can use a skillet to reheat your leftover pizza. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the pizza slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. The lid helps trap the heat, allowing the toppings to warm up without drying out the sweet potato crust.
For a quick and convenient option, you can reheat your leftover perfect pesto pizza with sweet potato crust in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the pizza is heated to your liking. However, keep in mind that the microwave may cause the crust to become slightly soft and the toppings to heat unevenly.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover pizza slices. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. This method is quick and helps maintain the texture of the sweet potato crust.
Interesting Fact About Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
The sweet potato crust in this recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional pizza dough, as sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This crust is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. Additionally, the use of nutrient-dense ingredients such as cashews, pistachios, and leafy greens in the pesto adds a flavorful and nutritious element to the pizza. By incorporating these wholesome components, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal.
Is Making Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust at Home Cost-Effective?
This sweet potato crust pizza recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, almond flour, and vegetables, are affordable and readily available. The use of cashews and pistachios in the pesto adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The versatility of the ingredients also allows for variations based on seasonal availability, making it a practical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-20.
Is This Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust Healthy?
This pesto pizza with sweet potato crust is a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. The sweet potato crust provides a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. The almond flour and flaxseed add healthy fats and additional fiber. The pesto is made with nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, basil, cilantro, and nuts, which offer vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The vegetable toppings add more fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
However, the recipe is quite high in calories and fat due to the almond flour, nuts, and olive oil. While these are mostly healthy fats, the portion size should be considered.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this pizza:
- Use a mix of whole wheat flour and almond flour for the crust to increase fiber and reduce overall fat content
- Reduce the amount of olive oil in the pesto and add more greens to maintain a creamy texture
- Include a variety of colorful vegetables as toppings to increase the diversity of nutrients
- Add a lean protein source like grilled chicken or tofu for a more balanced meal
- Use a light hand when spreading the pesto to control the calorie and fat content per slice
Editor's Opinion on This Pesto Pizza with Sweet Potato Crust
The sweet potato crust adds a unique twist to the traditional pizza, providing a healthy and flavorful base. The combination of cashews, pistachios, and fresh herbs in the pesto creates a rich and vibrant flavor profile. The colorful array of toppings adds a delightful visual appeal and a variety of textures. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will surely impress your taste buds.
Enhance Your Perfect Pesto Pizza With Sweet Potato Crust Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Perfect Pesto Pizza With Sweet Potato Crust Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic pizza, using a nutrient-rich sweet potato crust that adds a delicious and wholesome element to the dish. The homemade green pesto is packed with fresh basil, cilantro, and spinach, providing vibrant flavors and essential nutrients. The combination of cashews and pistachios adds a delightful crunch and richness to the pesto. With a careful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and arugula, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
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