Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chopped Salad Pizza is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy pizza while incorporating healthy ingredients. The crispy, cheesy pizza crust serves as the perfect base for a fresh salad topping, making every bite a mix of warm, gooey cheese and cool, crunchy veggies. With the option to add protein like feta or a grilled protein of choice, this pizza is customizable and packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something to impress guests.

Ingredients

For the Pizza:

1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup black olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

For the Salad Topping:

2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
¼ cup red cabbage, shredded (optional)
½ avocado, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pizza Crust

Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough package instructions, or to 475°F (245°C) if making homemade dough.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired size and thickness. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.

Bake the Pizza Crust

Brush the pizza crust with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

Assemble the Pizza

Once the pizza crust is baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust. If you’re using feta, sprinkle that on as well.
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prepare the Salad

While the pizza is baking, prepare the salad by tossing the mixed greens, red cabbage (if using), diced avocado, and any other vegetables you like.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard (if using), and salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Top the Pizza with Salad

Once the pizza is out of the oven, top it with the dressed salad mixture. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, and any additional toppings you prefer. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serve

Slice the pizza into wedges and serve immediately while the crust is still warm and the salad is fresh!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling pizza. Alternatively, you can add chickpeas or other legumes for a vegetarian protein boost.
Cheese Variations: Try adding goat cheese, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses to customize the flavor.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to load the salad topping with more vegetables like shredded carrots, radishes, or zucchini for added crunch and nutrients.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings like balsamic glaze, lemon vinaigrette, or even a creamy ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salad topping separate and add it just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until the crust crisps up again.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pizza crust?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time while still giving you a delicious homemade pizza.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free pizza crust to make this pizza gluten-free. Be sure to check that your dressing ingredients are also gluten-free if necessary.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prep the salad topping ahead of time and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. Assemble and bake the pizza just before serving.

How do I get a crispy pizza crust?

To ensure a crispy crust, make sure to preheat your oven and use a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The olive oil on the crust also helps create a crispy texture.

Can I add other salad ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any other salad ingredients you like, such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Chopped Salad Pizza is a fresh, vibrant, and customizable dish that perfectly blends the comfort of pizza with the crispness of a healthy salad. It’s an easy, fun, and visually stunning meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or just a fun fusion recipe, this pizza will definitely stand out as a crowd-pleaser!

Chopped Salad Pizza Recipe