Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Crust
- 1 medium cauliflower
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 mozzarella ball, torn into pieces
- Fresh arugula, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse them in a food processor until the texture resembles fine couscous, ensuring it is fine and even but not pureed.
- Remove the moisture: Transfer the processed cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel, wrap it tightly, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to ensure the crust will hold well.
- Dry it further: Place the squeezed cauliflower in a non-stick pan over low heat and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to remove any remaining moisture and improve texture.
- Make the dough: Transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and mix in the egg, flour, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until you achieve a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together when pressed.
- Shape the crust: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Prepare a baking tray or pizza pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly oiling it. Using damp hands, press the dough into a thin, even circle in the center of the tray.
- Pre-bake the base: Bake the crust for 15–20 minutes until it is set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Add the toppings: Remove the crust from the oven and top it with thinly sliced onion, cherry tomatoes, and torn pieces of mozzarella cheese.
- Final bake: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese has fully melted and the surface is lightly golden.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with a generous handful of fresh arugula just before serving.
Notes
- Removing as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower is crucial for a sturdy crust.
- Flour quantity can be adjusted slightly depending on the moisture content of the cauliflower.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting texture.
- If you prefer a thinner crust, press the dough more thinly before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free