If you’re looking to elevate your pizza game, then this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza is the perfect choice for your next culinary adventure. Imagine creamy, garlicky goodness spread over a crispy pizza crust, with vibrant spinach and a touch of Mediterranean flair. The absence of a traditional red sauce allows the flavors of garlic, olives, and cheeses to shine through, creating an enticing dish that is both satisfying and uniquely flavorful. This white pizza not only caters to your taste buds but also keeps your meal light and fresh, making it ideal for any occasion.
This recipe delivers on multiple fronts — it’s simple to make, packed with nutrients from fresh spinach, and isn’t overloaded with heavy sauces, providing a balance that many crave. Plus, the ease of using a pre-made pizza crust makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when planning for a casual dinner gathering. Dive into the bold flavors of roasted garlic and cheese combined in this dish, and you’ll find yourself craving another slice!
Why You’ll Love This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted garlic, creamy cheeses, and fresh spinach creates an exciting and satisfying flavor profile.
- Quick & Easy: With a pre-made pizza crust, this recipe is a breeze to throw together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Healthy Twist: Packed with spinach and healthy fats from olive oil, this pizza feels indulgent without the guilt.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients based on dietary restrictions or personal preferences, such as swapping cheeses or adding your favorite toppings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin crafting your delicious Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza, take a moment to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C), which is essential for getting that perfect crispy crust. You’ll need a baking sheet or pizza stone for optimal baking performance. Have your ingredients ready—chop the spinach, and determine how many cloves you’ll need from the roasted garlic. Furthermore, having a mixing bowl handy for the white sauce and an oven mitt will ensure that you’re set for a seamless cooking experience.
Once everything is prepped, make sure your workspace is organized. This helps in speeding up the process and minimizes the chance of forgotten ingredients. The main tools include a knife for slicing the garlic head, a baking dish for assembling your pizza, and some aluminum foil for the roasting process to keep things tidy. With everything in place, you’re ready to create a flavorful white pizza that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium garlic head
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by prepping your garlic. Slice the top off the garlic head, and drizzle it with one tablespoon of olive oil to enhance its natural sweetness and creaminess during the roasting process. Wrap the garlic tightly in aluminum foil to trap in the flavors and moisture, then place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 30–35 minutes until it turns golden brown and soft. Once it cools, squeeze out those deliciously sweet garlic cloves, setting them aside for the white sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
While the garlic is roasting, take one tablespoon of olive oil and heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down. This process enhances the spinach’s flavor and ensures it blends beautifully with the other ingredients. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring out the freshness of the spinach. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Creamy White Sauce
In a mixing bowl, take the roasted garlic and mash it to a paste-like consistency. Combine this with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, creating a creamy white sauce. The richness of the ricotta paired with the savory garlic makes for an irresistible spread that will serve as the base for your pizza. Mix well until everything is incorporated smoothly.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Spread the garlic-ricotta mixture evenly across the pre-made pizza crust, ensuring you cover it entirely for a luscious bite every time. Next, layer the sautéed spinach on top, followed by the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey stretch we all adore. Crumble the feta cheese over the top for a burst of flavor, and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you’re looking for a bit of heat.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your assembled pizza into the oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on it as every oven varies! Once done, it should have a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a refreshing finish.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option, boosting both flavor and nutrition.
- Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables such as roasted red peppers, artichokes, or olives to amplify the Mediterranean essence.
- Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme or fresh parsley for an aromatic twist. You could also replace the red pepper flakes with a touch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Cooking Notes
- This recipe is highly adaptable. If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
- Pre-roasting the garlic not only enhances its flavor but also removes the raw bite, making it a delightful addition to any sauce or dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pizza with a fresh side salad, like a Greek salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, for a complete meal.
- A nice glass of white wine or a classic lemonade pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pizza.
Tips
- For best results, allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before assembling, helping them bake evenly.
- When slicing the pizza, use a sharp pizza cutter or a large knife to make clean cuts without disturbing the toppings.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Protein: About 15 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 450 mg
FAQs
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free pizza crust to accommodate gluten-free diets.
What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?
If you prefer, you can use a cheese like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile while keeping it melty.
Can I add more vegetables to the pizza?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies such as zucchini or asparagus for added texture and taste.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven for the best results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its creamy texture combined with vibrant flavors makes it an irresistible choice that doesn’t compromise on health. Ready in less than an hour, this recipe allows for plenty of creativity whether you’re adding protein, adjusting the toppings, or playing with flavors. After trying this pizza, we hope you’ll come back to share your own variations or experiences in the comments! Don’t forget to pass it on to friends and family for their next pizza night!
Print
Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza combines creamy garlic, fresh spinach, and a medley of cheeses for a light yet indulgent dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium garlic head
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by prepping your garlic. Slice the top off the garlic head, and drizzle it with one tablespoon of olive oil. Wrap the garlic tightly in aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 30–35 minutes until it turns golden brown and soft. Once it cools, squeeze out the garlic cloves.
- While the garlic is roasting, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until it wilts down. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the roasted garlic and combine it with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a creamy white sauce.
- Spread the garlic-ricotta mixture evenly across the pre-made pizza crust. Layer the sautéed spinach on top, followed by the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Crumble the feta cheese and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake in the oven for about 15–20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
This recipe is adaptable. Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese if needed. Pre-roasting garlic enhances flavor and removes raw bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 15 g