Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Grilled Pizza Recipe
If you’re looking for a deliciously unique twist on traditional pizza, you’ll love this vegetarian grilled pizza recipe.
The smoky flavor from the grill elevates the fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant taste explosion. I can’t get enough of the crispy crust and melted cheese, especially when paired with seasonal veggies.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings! Grilling adds a depth of flavor you just can’t achieve in the oven.
Every bite feels like a celebration of summer. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for regular pizza!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Grilled Pizza
When it comes to whipping up a delicious vegetarian grilled pizza, the ingredients are key. They not only add flavor but also bring a fun, colorful vibe to your cooking adventure.
Imagine biting into a slice topped with fresh tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and smoky grilled veggies. It’s like a party in your mouth! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, gathering your ingredients is the first step to pizza perfection.
So, let’s get to it!
Ingredients for Vegetarian Grilled Pizza
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup strong white bread flour
- 2 tablespoons Himalayan pink salt
- 1 (1/4 ounce) packet fast-action yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup cooking oil
- 1 3/4 cups lukewarm water
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- Sea salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 small bunch fresh basil
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 ball mozzarella cheese
- Harissa hot smoked cauliflower
- 2 mushrooms, sliced
- 1 jalapeno, sliced
- 1 grilled onion
- Semolina flour, for dusting
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Now, before you dash off to the grocery store, let’s talk about some fun ingredient swaps and tips.
You can totally mix and match your veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Didn’t find fresh basil? No worries! Try using dried herbs or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. Plus, don’t hesitate to use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time.
Just remember, the magic of this recipe lies in the grilling. So, fire up that BBQ and get ready for a flavor explosion!
How to Make Vegetarian Grilled Pizza
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making your very own vegetarian grilled pizza! First things first, we need to whip up that glorious dough. Grab a bowl and toss in 1 3/4 cups of lukewarm water, along with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of strong white bread flour, 2 tablespoons of Himalayan pink salt, and a 1/4 ounce packet of fast-action yeast.
Oh, and don’t forget 2 tablespoons of honey to add a hint of sweetness. Mix it all up in an electric mixer (or with a good old-fashioned hand mixer if you’re feeling nostalgic). Once those ingredients are combining beautifully, pour in 1/2 cup of cooking oil while you mix. You want that dough to be slightly wet, smooth, and elastic.
After about 5-7 minutes of mixing, transfer it to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp tea towel, and let it hang out in a warm spot for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s doubled in size, like a doughy balloon!
Now, while that dough is rising, it’s time to get the sauce going. Chop up a medium onion and sauté it in a medium pan over medium-low heat with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. You’re looking for it to soften up, but not turn brown—think of it as giving the onion a gentle spa treatment.
After about 5 minutes, crush in 3 garlic cloves for that aromatic goodness. Stir in 2 cups of chopped tomatoes, a 1/2 small bunch of finely chopped fresh basil, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. Season it all with salt and pepper. You can keep it chunky or blend it up for a smoother texture, whichever floats your boat!
Once the dough has risen and your sauce is ready, it’s time to roll out the pizza rounds. Gently knock back the dough on a floured surface, divide it into four pieces, and roll each one into a round shape.
Now, for the fun part: fire up your BBQ! Set it up for the heat canyon technique and get it nice and hot—around 450°F should do the trick. Spread a tablespoon of your homemade tomato sauce on each round, sprinkle on some mozzarella cheese, and layer on the harissa hot smoked cauliflower, sliced mushrooms, jalapenos, and grilled onions.
Dust a pizza stone or a large metal roasting tray with semolina flour (this part is essential for that crispy crust). Slide your pizzas onto the stone or tray and cover it with the BBQ lid. Wait for about 10-12 minutes, and voila! You’ll have golden, crispy pizzas with melting cheese that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Don’t forget, if you have any leftover crusts, a little drizzle of honey makes for a sweet treat. Happy grilling!
Vegetarian Grilled Pizza Substitutions & Variations
While the classic vegetarian grilled pizza is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to customize it to your taste.
For instance, swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist. You can also change up the veggies—try spinach, bell peppers, or artichokes instead of the traditional toppings.
Want some heat? Add banana peppers or crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re in the mood for a different sauce, pesto or barbecue sauce can really elevate the flavor.
Don’t hesitate to experiment until you find your favorite combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your vegetarian grilled pizza turns out perfectly, keep a few key tips in mind.
First, make sure your grill is preheated to about 450°F for that crispy crust. Don’t rush the dough—let it rise properly for the best texture.
When spreading sauce, less is more; you want a balanced flavor without sogginess. Also, experiment with toppings—seasonal veggies can elevate your pizza!
Finally, keep an eye on the cooking time; every grill heats differently. Once it’s golden and bubbly, it’s ready.
Enjoy dipping those crusts in honey for a delightful finish! Happy grilling!