artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

This artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce is a delightful dish that combines creamy, flavorful elements with the fresh taste of marinated artichokes. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this pizza offers a unique twist on traditional recipes. Its standout qualities include a rich parmesan spinach sauce and a blend of cheeses that elevate each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The creamy spinach parmesan sauce paired with marinated artichokes creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy homemade pizza without the fuss.
• Versatile Dish: This pizza can be served as a main course or sliced into smaller pieces for appetizers at parties.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make it your own!
• Perfectly Satisfying: The combination of cheese and veggies makes it a filling meal for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delicious pizza, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza stone: Helps achieve a crispy crust by distributing heat evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the creamy sauce without lumps.
• Saucepan: Necessary for heating and preparing the spinach parmesan cream sauce.

Ingredients

This artichoke pizza is spread with a creamy parmesan spinach sauce, then sprinkled with mozzarella, pecorino, and marinated artichoke hearts.

For the Creamy Spinach Parmesan Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 garlic clove, smashed and peeled
• 1 1/2 oz cream cheese
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 oz finely grated parmesan
• 3 oz baby spinach

For the Pizza

• 1/2 recipe artisan pizza dough (one 15 oz dough ball)
• spinach cream sauce (all of recipe above)
• 4 oz shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (whole milk, if possible)
• 1 oz coarsely grated pecorino
• 4 oz marinated artichoke quarters (8-10), drained and patted dry

How to Make artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Spinach Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine heavy cream and garlic.
2. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat.
3. Add cream cheese until melted.
4. Stir in salt, pepper, grated parmesan, and baby spinach until wilted.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface:
1. Take half of your artisan pizza dough.
2. Roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
3. Transfer it to parchment paper or your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Spread an even layer of the spinach sauce on the rolled-out dough:
1. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
2. Add coarsely grated pecorino cheese next.
3. Finally, arrange marinated artichoke quarters evenly across the pizza.

Step 5: Bake Your Pizza

Carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet:
1. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
2. Remove from oven and let cool briefly before slicing.

Enjoy this delicious artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce fresh from your kitchen!

How to Serve artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

Serving artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages, making it perfect for any occasion.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the pizza.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread is a classic companion that complements the creamy texture of the pizza.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and provide a nutritious side that enhances the meal.

Accompany with a Light Soup

• A light vegetable soup can serve as a delightful starter, warming up your palate before indulging in the pizza.

How to Perfect artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

To achieve the best results with your artichoke pizza, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for an evenly cooked crust that’s crispy on the outside.
• Evenly Spread Sauce: Spread the spinach parmesan cream sauce evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pizza while baking; remove it once the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• Let It Cool Slightly: Allow your pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent toppings from sliding off.

Best Side Dishes for artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

Complementing your artichoke pizza with delicious sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons makes for a refreshing contrast.
2. Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add vibrant color and flavor.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy pizza.
4. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters add crunch and are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese create an irresistible appetizer alongside the main dish.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce can be a delicious experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold dough preparation: Using store-bought dough might save time, but homemade dough offers better flavor and texture. Try making your own artisan pizza dough for a fresher taste.
• Bold overcooking the sauce: Cooking the spinach parmesan cream sauce too long can lead to separation. Cook just until the ingredients blend smoothly to maintain its creamy consistency.
• Bold neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your sauce properly can result in bland pizza. Always taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before spreading on the dough.
• Bold overcrowding toppings: Adding too many toppings can make it hard for the crust to cook evenly. Stick to a balanced amount of marinated artichokes and cheese for optimal baking.
• Bold ignoring preheating: Skipping the preheating step for your oven or pizza stone can lead to soggy crust. Ensure everything is well-heated before placing your pizza inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen pizza can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering it with a lid to melt cheese evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce.

What is artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce?

Artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce is a flavorful dish featuring creamy spinach sauce topped with mozzarella, pecorino cheese, and marinated artichokes on artisan dough.

How do I customize my artichoke pizza?

You can customize your artichoke pizza by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even opting for different types of cheese based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives such as cashew cream or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What sides go well with artichoke pizza?

Salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement artichoke pizza beautifully, adding freshness and variety to your meal.

Final Thoughts

This artichoke pizza with spinach parmesan cream sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily modify it by adding various toppings or using different cheeses. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!