Imagine a pizza so incredible, it defies everything you thought you knew about healthy eating. This Shiitake Basil and Lemon Cauliflower Pizza is not just a meal – it's a culinary revolution that transforms the humble cauliflower into a crispy, flavor-packed pizza crust that will make you forget all about traditional wheat-based pizzas. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, low-carb enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a gourmet twist to their dinner routine!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, riced
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Rice the cauliflower by pulsing florets in a food processor until they resemble fine, rice-like grains.
- Place the riced cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower rice, beaten egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until a cohesive "dough" forms.
- Spread the cauliflower mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing and shaping into a thin, even pizza crust about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes until golden and firm around the edges.
- While the crust bakes, sauté sliced shiitake mushrooms in a pan with a touch of olive oil until they're lightly browned and tender.
- Remove the crust from the oven and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sautéed shiitake mushrooms.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped basil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Let the pizza cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice and serve hot.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: The key to a crispy cauliflower crust is removing as much moisture as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel and squeeze the riced cauliflower thoroughly – and we mean THOROUGHLY!
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with your seasonings. The lemon zest and fresh basil are crucial for building layers of flavor.
- Parchment Paper is Your Friend: This prevents sticking and helps achieve a crispy bottom crust.
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on your crust to prevent burning. The goal is a golden, crisp edge.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and a good quality lemon for the brightest, most vibrant flavors.
- Let it Rest: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the crust set and makes it easier to slice. Pro Tip: For an extra crispy crust, you can flip the crust halfway through the initial baking time and bake the other side for a few minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
