Description
Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza
Ingredients
1 pre-made flatbread or pizza crust
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
1/4 cup green olives, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup diced bell peppers (yellow or red)
1 tsp dried oregano
Fresh thyme for garnish
Directions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Assemble the Flatbread:
Place the flatbread on a baking sheet. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
Add the Toppings:
Sprinkle mozzarella and feta cheese on top. Add the olives, red onion, and diced bell peppers.
Season and Bake:
Sprinkle dried oregano over the toppings. Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with fresh thyme before serving. Slice and enjoy this Mediterranean delight!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect flatbread pizza every time. First, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your flatbread on a baking sheet or pizza stone for a crispier crust. Using the back of a spoon, spread the pizza sauce in a thin, even layer, leaving a small border for the crust. Next, layer the cheeses: first the shredded mozzarella for meltiness, then the crumbled feta for bold flavor. Distribute the Kalamata olives, green olives, red onion, and bell peppers evenly to ensure every slice is packed with flavor. Finally, sprinkle the dried oregano across the top just before baking to unlock its aromatic oils.
Serving Suggestions
This flatbread pizza is a versatile dish. For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve it alongside a simple Greek salad with lemon-oregano vinaigrette or a bowl of tzatziki for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé. For a casual dinner party, cut the flatbread into smaller squares to create an easy, shareable appetizer.
How-to Summary
In summary: Preheat oven to 400°F. Assemble by spreading sauce on flatbread, topping with cheeses, olives, onions, and peppers. Season with oregano. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Garnish with fresh thyme and slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a certified gluten-free flatbread or pizza crust. Many brands offer excellent cauliflower or gluten-free flour crusts that work perfectly.
How can I prevent a soggy crust?
Ensure your flatbread is at room temperature before assembling. Avoid overloading with wet ingredients. For extra crispness, bake the plain crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.
What are good protein additions?
Grilled chicken strips, sliced pepperoni, or cooked ground lamb seasoned with Mediterranean herbs would be delicious additions. For a vegetarian protein, add canned chickpeas (rinsed and dried).
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can pre-chop all vegetables and store them separately. Assemble the pizza just before baking to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375°F for 5-8 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much sauce: A thick layer will make the crust soggy. Use a thin, even spread.
- Overloading with toppings: This can lead to uneven cooking and a limp center. Less is more.
- Neglecting to preheat the oven: A properly hot oven is crucial for a crispy base and melted cheese.
- Skipping the fresh herb garnish: Fresh thyme or basil added after baking provides a vital burst of fresh flavor.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza is more than just a quick meal; it’s a vibrant, flavor-packed experience that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table in under 20 minutes. Its simplicity, customizability, and delicious results make it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or satisfying a pizza craving with a gourmet twist. Enjoy the process of creating it and the delightful combination of savory feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs in every bite.