Being plant-based does not mean boring! There are so many delicious ways to eat, and so many great ingredients to make a healthy and very fulfilling and exciting meal. Often, when I am am asked to bring a dish to a party, I think people dread that "the vegan" will make twigs and berries (lol) but most of the time, it is my dish that disappears the fastest and nobody knows it was organic vegan! This just shows that a vegan, plant-based diet is easy, delicious and worth exploring. My personal favorite thing to make is PIZZA! It is easy, yummy and a great meal or appetizer for a summer party, game, or a quick dinner for family. Here is how to make a healthier version of one of America's favorite dishes:
Cauliflower Pizza Italiano
Organic Ingredients:
Start with a cauliflower crust. My favorite is Wholes Food's 365 crust.
Daiya brand mozzarella "cheese" (vegan alternative) or 365 brand
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Fresh crushed garlic
Diced Tomatoes
Olive Bruschetta
Artichokes
Balsamic Glaze
Instructions:
Take the Cauliflower crust and drizzle with olive oil.
Add crushed garlic, evenly spread on top
Bake in an oven at 375 degrees for 5-6 minutes (keep an eye on it)
After fully baked and brown, remove and then add toppings:
Daiya Vegan Mozzarella Cheese
Diced fresh tomatoes
Olive Bruschetta
Artichokes (I suggest cutting in half)
Broil until "cheese" melts - about 5 minutes (keep eye on it)
Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar Glaze on top.
You can add other ingredients for a different taste. Some of my favorite options are:
Peppers
Mushrooms
Basil
Mozzarella and/or cheddar Daiya vegan cheese
Add this on top of the oil/garlic infused crust
*I also love added fresh baby spinach on top and drizzle balsamic vinegar glaze.
Any vegetable is great on a pizza! You can change out the diced tomatoes for a Pizza sauce, if you prefer. You can also add a vegan "meat" option, such as Beyond Sausage or Gardein "chicken" strips.
**If you don't like cauliflower as an option, I suggest a sourdough crust. Just make sure it is organic!
Enjoy!