Mediterranean Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on a Cottage Cheese Crust
This Mediterranean-style white pizza is light, fresh, and full of flavor. Instead of traditional dough, it uses a cottage cheese-based crust that is high in protein, soft yet slightly crisp at the edges, and makes the pizza both filling and healthy. Topped with garlicky sautéed spinach, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and a hint of fresh herbs, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering. The white sauce approach allows the flavors of the spinach, garlic, and cheeses to shine without the heaviness of a tomato base, while Mediterranean touches like lemon zest, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil give it an elevated, bright finish.
Time
Prep: 15–20 minutes
Cook: 25–30 minutes
Total: 40–50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cottage Cheese Crust
1½ cups cottage cheese (small curd, well-drained)
1 cup rolled oats or oat flour (for a finer crust)
2 large eggs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Toppings
2 tbsp olive oil
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes for subtle heat
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with olive oil or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the crust.
Make the Cottage Cheese Crust
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, oats (or oat flour), eggs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and thick. The batter should hold together but remain spreadable.
Pour the mixture onto the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly into a circle or rectangle about ¼–½ inch thick.
Bake the crust for 12–15 minutes, until the edges begin to turn golden and it is firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the toppings.
Sauté the Spinach and Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest for a bright finish. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pizza
Spread dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the pre-baked cottage cheese crust.
Layer the sautéed spinach evenly on top of the ricotta.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the spinach.
Add Parmesan if desired, and lightly drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the top for extra richness.
Optionally, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Bake the Pizza
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent over-browning.
Finish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Slice into squares or wedges and serve warm.
Tips
Drain the cottage cheese well to avoid a soggy crust; excess moisture can prevent proper baking.
Use a blender or food processor to ensure the crust is smooth and cohesive.
Pat the crust thinly and evenly; a thicker crust will take longer to bake and may remain soft in the center.
Pre-bake the crust for better structure, especially with high-moisture toppings like spinach.
Wilt spinach well before adding to the pizza to prevent excess water.
Lemon zest adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheeses.
Cheese layering: ricotta first, spinach in the middle, mozzarella on top ensures even melting.
Optional toppings: roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, mushrooms, or olives can enhance Mediterranean flavor.
Watch the cheese toward the end of baking to prevent burning.
Let pizza rest before slicing; this allows the crust to set and toppings to settle.
Variations
Vegan-friendly: Use silken tofu for the crust and vegan cheese alternatives.
Low-carb: Replace oats with almond flour for a keto version.
Spicy Mediterranean: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the topping.
Cheese variation: Use feta cheese or goat cheese for stronger Mediterranean notes.
Extra protein: Add cooked chicken pieces or chickpeas on top.
Herb swap: Use basil, oregano, or tarragon instead of parsley.
Roasted vegetable topping: Include zucchini, red peppers, or eggplant for more flavor and texture.
Garlic cream drizzle: Mix a little cream with garlic and drizzle on top before serving.
Q&A
Can I make the crust ahead?
Yes, prepare the crust and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before topping and baking.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw fully and squeeze out excess water before sautéing.
Can I substitute cottage cheese?
Ricotta can be used, but you may need slightly less liquid for the crust to hold.
Can this pizza be made gluten-free?
Yes, oat flour or almond flour are naturally gluten-free alternatives.
Can I add protein?
Cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work well as additional toppings.
How do I prevent the crust from being soggy?
Pre-bake the crust and avoid adding too much liquid from spinach or other vegetables.
Can I use shredded mozzarella only?
Yes, but blending with Parmesan or Pecorino adds more flavor.
Can I freeze the pizza?
Freeze after baking, slice, and reheat in the oven for best results.
How do I get a crispier crust?
Bake on a preheated pizza stone or a hot baking sheet to help crisp the bottom.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based cheese and tofu for the crust to keep the recipe dairy-free.
Nutrition
(approx. per serving, 6 servings)
Calories: 220–250
Protein: 15–18 g
Fat: 12–14 g
Carbs: 12–14 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on a Cottage Cheese Crust is a light, protein-packed alternative to traditional pizza. The combination of a soft, slightly crisp crust, garlicky sautéed spinach, creamy cheeses, and fresh herbs creates a balanced, satisfying meal. It’s flexible, easy to customize, and a perfect way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors in a healthy, approachable pizza format. Whether for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a casual lunch, this pizza hits the balance of indulgence and nutrition.