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Green Pesto Pizza with Broccoli, Artichokes, Feta, and Mozzarella Recipe

4.9 from 104 reviews

This vibrant Green Pizza recipe features a flavorful homemade walnut pesto spread over a crispy pizza crust, topped with tender broccoli florets, artichoke hearts, mozzarella, and feta cheeses. It’s a delicious vegetarian option, perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal or entertaining guests with a fresh, green twist on classic pizza.

Ingredients

Scale

For Pesto:

  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup basil leaves, lightly packed
  • 1 cup spinach leaves, lightly packed
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Pizza:

  • Nonstick spray or olive oil for greasing
  • 2 heads broccoli (not bunches), cut into small florets
  • 1 pound (454 grams) pizza dough
  • 1 (14-ounce / 397 grams) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
  • 8 ounces (227 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet or pizza pan with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. If using refrigerated pizza dough, allow it to warm slightly on the counter for easier handling.
  2. Toast Walnuts: Place the chopped walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly toasted and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool before proceeding.
  3. Make Pesto: In a food processor, combine the cooled walnuts, garlic cloves, basil leaves, and spinach leaves. Process until the mixture is finely minced. Then add the shredded Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue processing until the pesto achieves a smooth consistency. Set the pesto aside for later use.
  4. Prepare Broccoli: Place broccoli florets in a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Drizzle with a couple of tablespoons of water, cover, and microwave on high until the broccoli is just tender, approximately 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess water and let the broccoli cool.
  5. Shape Dough: Transfer the pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan. Press and stretch the dough evenly to the edges of the pan to form the pizza base.
  6. Assemble Pizza: Spread half of the prepared pesto evenly over the pizza dough, reserving the remaining pesto for another use. Sprinkle ¾ of the shredded mozzarella cheese atop the pesto layer.
  7. Add Toppings: Distribute the tender broccoli florets and drained artichoke hearts evenly over the mozzarella cheese. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, followed by an even layer of crumbled feta cheese.
  8. Bake: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  9. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Slice and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful green pizza!

Notes

  • Allowing the pizza dough to come to room temperature before stretching helps prevent tearing.
  • Lightly toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds depth to the pesto.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or almonds if preferred.
  • The reserved pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Microwaving broccoli preserves its bright color and tenderness without overcooking.
  • Feel free to add chili flakes for a spicy kick or swap feta with goat cheese for a different tang.

Keywords: green pizza, pesto pizza, broccoli pizza, artichoke pizza, vegetarian pizza, homemade pizza, walnut pesto, easy pizza recipe, healthy pizza