Description
Spinach and Tomato Flatbread Pizza
Ingredients
1 flatbread or naan
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, sautéed
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or chives for garnish
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the flatbread on the baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
Spread ricotta cheese over the flatbread, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the sautéed spinach and diced tomatoes evenly on top.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the toppings.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or chives before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet. Sauté your fresh spinach in a small pan with a drizzle of olive oil until just wilted; this removes excess moisture. Dice the cherry tomatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent a soggy crust. Lightly brush the flatbread with olive oil to create a barrier and enhance crispiness. Spread the ricotta as your base layer, then season it directly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Distribute the sautéed spinach and diced tomatoes evenly. Finally, blanket everything with the shredded mozzarella, which will bind the toppings as it melts. Bake on the middle rack for 8-10 minutes until golden.
Serving Suggestions
This flatbread pizza is versatile. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It makes an excellent appetizer when sliced into small strips. For a brunch twist, top with a fried egg after baking. Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a charcuterie board for a casual dinner party. A light, crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In short: Sauté spinach, dice tomatoes, preheat oven. Oil flatbread, spread ricotta, add seasonings. Layer spinach and tomatoes, top with mozzarella. Bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Feta or goat cheese can replace ricotta for a tangier flavor. For the mozzarella, provolone or a pre-shredded pizza blend works well.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? The key is moisture control. Always sauté spinach to wilt it and pat diced tomatoes dry. Pre-baking the naked flatbread for 3 minutes before adding toppings can also create a crisper base.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the components (sauté spinach, dice tomatoes, shred cheese) and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Assemble just before baking.
What can I use instead of flatbread? Naan, pita bread, a pre-made pizza crust, or even a large tortilla are excellent substitutes. Adjust baking time accordingly, as thinner bases cook faster.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing after baking can make the flatbread chewy. For meal prep, freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza on a sheet pan, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using raw, wet spinach, which will steam and make the pizza soggy.
- Overloading the flatbread with toppings, causing it to become limp.
- Neglecting to season the ricotta layer, resulting in bland bites.
- Baking on a lower rack, which can burn the bottom before the cheese melts.
- Skipping the olive oil brush on the crust, missing out on flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Tomato Flatbread Pizza is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a spectacular meal in under 20 minutes. By mastering a few key techniques—like managing moisture and layering flavors—you can achieve a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that feels gourmet. It’s a endlessly customizable template for quick dinners, impressive appetizers, or a creative kitchen experiment. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, wholesome results.