🍕 Grilled Spinach Pizza Recipe
📝 Introduction
Grilled pizza is a game-changer—charred and crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. This version features sautéed spinach, garlic, and melty cheeses, making it both delicious and satisfying. Great as a main course or party snack!
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 2–4
🛒 Ingredients
For the Dough (or use store-bought):
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp sugar
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional toppings: sliced cherry tomatoes, red onions, mushrooms, or a sprinkle of feta
👨🍳 Method
1. Make the Dough (if homemade):
- In a bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
2. Prep the Spinach Topping:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add spinach and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 450°F / 230°C).
- Brush grates with oil or use a grill mat or pizza stone for easier handling.
4. Shape and Grill the Dough:
- Roll or stretch the dough into a 10–12-inch oval or circle.
- Lightly brush one side with oil and place oil-side down directly on the grill.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes with the lid closed, until bubbles form and grill marks appear.
- Brush the top side with oil, then flip.
5. Add the Toppings:
- Spread ricotta in dollops over the grilled side.
- Scatter sautéed spinach over top.
- Add mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Add any optional toppings at this point.
6. Finish Grilling:
- Close the grill lid and cook for another 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bottom is crisp.
- Remove from the grill using tongs or a pizza peel.
7. Serve:
- Let cool for 2–3 minutes, slice, and serve with fresh basil or chili flakes if desired.
💡 Tips
- No Grill? Use a cast-iron skillet or oven broiler to mimic grill heat.
- Crispier Crust? Grill the dough longer on the first side before flipping.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, pancetta, or shrimp go well with spinach.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheeses and sautéed mushrooms for depth.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! Thaw and squeeze out excess water before sautéing with garlic.
Q: Can I use naan or flatbread instead of dough?
A: Absolutely—this cuts down prep time and still grills beautifully.
Q: What cheese alternatives work well?
A: Goat cheese, fontina, or even blue cheese can be swapped for ricotta or mozzarella.
📊 Nutrition (per slice, approx. 8 slices total)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg