Healthy Zucchini & Chia Pizza Crust Recipe
This Zucchini & Chia Pizza Crust is a fantastic gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crusts. Packed with fiber healthy fats and vegetables it’s a perfect option for those looking to make a healthier pizza without compromising on taste or texture. The zucchini adds moisture while the chia seeds help bind everything together creating a crispy yet soft base.
Ingredients:
1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
2 tablespoons chia seeds (preferably ground)
1/2 cup almond flour (or any other low-carb flour of your choice)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for added texture and flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on thickness and toppings)
Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Instructions:
Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important to avoid a soggy crust.
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl combine the grated zucchini chia seeds almond flour garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Add the Egg and Cheese: Beat the egg in a small bowl then add it to the zucchini mixture along with the shredded mozzarella cheese (if using). Mix everything together until you form a dough-like consistency.
Shape the Crust: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the baking sheet and flatten it into your desired pizza crust shape about 1/4-inch thick.
Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the crust for 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Add Toppings: Once the crust is baked you can add your favorite pizza toppings (tomato sauce cheese vegetables or meats). Bake again for another 10-12 minutes or until the toppings are cooked to your liking.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice your healthy zucchini & chia pizza crust and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Squeeze the zucchini dry: The key to getting the right texture for the crust is removing as much moisture from the zucchini as possible.
Chia seeds: You can grind the chia seeds if you prefer a smoother texture or leave them whole for a bit of crunch.
Customize: Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your preference. Adding Italian seasoning or fresh herbs can enhance the flavor.
Make it dairy-free: For a dairy-free version skip the cheese and try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Nutrition (per slice assuming 8 slices
Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
In conclusion this healthy zucchini and chia pizza crust is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional pizza crusts. It’s packed with fiber vitamins and healthy fats making it a great option for those looking to reduce carbs or eat more vegetables. The addition of chia seeds helps improve the crust’s texture while providing extra protein and omega-3s. This recipe is simple to make customizable with your favorite toppings and offers a guilt-free way to enjoy pizza while staying aligned with your health goals.
This zucchini & chia pizza crust is a great way to enjoy pizza while staying healthy, and it’s packed with nutrients that help keep you full longer!