Name: Chopped Italian Salad Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium cucumber, diced; ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced; 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (burrata or mozzarella balls); ½ cup olives (Kalamata or green), pitted and sliced; ½ cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought); ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza takes the best parts of an Italian salad and turns it into a delicious, satisfying meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and tangy Italian dressing on a crispy pizza crust is simply irresistible. It’s light, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (burrata or mozzarella balls)
½ cup olives (Kalamata or green), pitted and sliced
½ cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches wide and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
While the crust is baking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and olives into bite-sized pieces.
Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle fresh mozzarella evenly over the hot crust.
Drizzle Italian dressing over the pizza and then scatter the chopped basil leaves on top for an aromatic finish.
Slice the pizza into squares or wedges and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Top the pizza with grilled chicken, or even some pepperoni for added protein.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella and a vegan Italian dressing for a plant-based alternative.
Extra Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top for an extra crunch.
Roasted Veggies: For a deeper flavor, try roasting the bell peppers and onions before adding them to the pizza.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with burrata, goat cheese, or feta for a different flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pizza dough to make the pizza gluten-free.

3. How can I make this pizza spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the pizza or add some sliced jalapeños to the topping.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as olives, artichokes, or spinach, to customize the pizza to your liking.

5. Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the toppings and store them in the fridge ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the pizza just before serving for the freshest taste.

6. What if I don’t have fresh basil?

If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use dried basil or try substituting with other herbs like oregano or thyme.

7. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the crust fully before adding the toppings, and if necessary, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it stays crisp.

8. Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, store-bought Italian dressing works perfectly for this recipe, but homemade dressing can add an extra burst of flavor.

9. How can I make the pizza more filling?

Add a layer of hummus, cream cheese, or ricotta on the crust before baking for added richness.

10. Can I use a different type of dough?

If you prefer, you can use flatbread, pita bread, or even a cauliflower crust for a different base.

Conclusion

Chopped Italian Salad Pizza is a fresh, flavorful, and fun twist on traditional pizza. With its crisp crust, vibrant toppings, and tangy dressing, it’s the perfect dish for summer gatherings, casual dinners, or impressing guests at brunch. Whether you stick to the classic toppings or customize it to your taste, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your pizza rotation!