High Protein Spinach Artichoke Pizza
Delicious and nutritious High Protein Spinach Artichoke Pizza featuring a protein-packed creamy sauce, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and melted mozzarella on a whole wheat crust. A perfect healthy alternative to traditional pizza, ideal for a satisfying meal or snack.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 3-4)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Italian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free crust used)
Crust
- Whole Wheat Pizza Dough (enough for one 12-inch pizza)
- Olive Oil (for brushing, about 1-2 tbsp)
Sauce
- Low-Fat Ricotta Cheese (1 cup)
- Greek Yogurt (1/4 cup)
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup)
- Salt (1/4 tsp)
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp)
Toppings
- Fresh Spinach Leaves (2 cups, lightly packed)
- Artichoke Hearts, chopped (1 cup, well-drained)
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 to 1 1/2 cups)
- Italian Seasonings – dried oregano and basil (1 tsp total)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Basil or Oregano (for sprinkling)
- Olive Oil (for drizzling)
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the whole wheat pizza dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone into a thin, even layer. Lightly brush the surface with olive oil to add flavor and prevent sogginess.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, combine low-fat ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth to create a rich, protein-packed base sauce.
- Add Fresh Spinach and Artichokes: Evenly distribute fresh spinach leaves and chopped, well-drained artichoke hearts over the creamy sauce layer on the dough.
- Top with Mozzarella: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the spinach and artichoke toppings, ensuring an even coverage for melting.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: After baking, optionally sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or oregano on top. Slice and serve warm for a comforting, protein-rich meal.
Notes
- Pre-cook or lightly sauté spinach to reduce moisture and prevent a soggy crust.
- Drain artichokes thoroughly when using canned or jarred varieties to avoid excess liquid.
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust with even heat distribution.
- Avoid overloading the pizza with toppings to ensure even baking and avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or extra fresh garlic for added flavor depth.
- For vegan or gluten-free variations, substitute ingredients accordingly as suggested in the recipe variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pizza
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: high protein pizza, spinach artichoke pizza, healthy pizza, whole wheat pizza, protein-packed meal, vegetarian pizza, nutritious pizza