Vegan Broccoli Crust Pizza | Plant-based Recipe

Looking for a fun and flavorful way to boost your veggie intake? Say hello to Vegan Broccoli Crust Pizza—a nutritious, delicious, and creative alternative to traditional dough-based pizza. Whether you're reducing carbs, going gluten-free, or just want to sneak more greens into your meals, this vibrant green crust is your new weeknight hero.

Why Broccoli? 🥦

Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable from the cruciferous family, which also includes kale, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, collard and mustard greens, and more. Most of us are familiar with its classic green hue, but did you know broccoli also grows in purple, yellow, and white varieties? Keep an eye out for these colorful versions at your local farmers market—they're as beautiful as they are beneficial.

Rethinking Pizza: The Plant-Based Crust Revolution

Gone are the days when pizza crust had to be made with refined white flour. As more people adopt plant-based and gluten-free lifestyles, creative crust alternatives are taking center stage—and broccoli crust is just one delicious example.

Other Popular Plant-Based Crusts:

• Cauliflower Crust: A lighter, low-carb favorite often paired with Mediterranean toppings.

• Sweet Potato Crust: Slightly sweet and sturdy, great for balancing spicy or savory flavors.

• Chickpea Flour Crust (Socca): High in protein and fiber, with a nutty flavor and crispy texture.

• Zucchini Crust: A hydrating, low-calorie option perfect for summer veggie toppings.

• Quinoa Crust: A protein-packed base that’s crunchy on the outside and fluffy inside.

Broccoli crust stands out for its earthy flavor, vibrant green color, and nutritional density. It’s an excellent way to enjoy pizza night while sneaking in extra veggies—no one will even miss the dough!

💚 Pro Tip: Want to make it a family night? Let everyone build their own mini vegan pizzas using different veggie crusts and toppings. It's a fun, interactive, and nutritious activity for all ages!

 

Vegan Broccoli Crust Pizza Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

For the crust:

• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
• 3/4 cup almond flour (or oat flour, for nut-free option)
• 3 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water (flax “egg”)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the toppings:

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (tomato or vegan pesto)
• 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella or cashew cheese
• 1/2 cup additional steamed broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup sauteed mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Chili flakes or lemon zest (optional)
• Physician In The Kitchen Vegan Worcestershire Sauce or balsamic vinegar, optional, for drizzle
• Fresh basil, sliced into ribbons, optional garnish
  

DIRECTIONS:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place pizza stone (if using) in the oven as it preheats.
• In a small bowl, mix flaxseed + water; place in refrigerator and let sit for 5–10 min to thicken to an egg-like consistency.
• Prepare the broccoli: Steam or microwave broccoli florets for ~3–4 minutes until tender. Transfer to a food processor; pulse until finely riced. Transfer to a clean towel; squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
• Make the crust mixture: In a large bowl, combine broccoli “rice,” almond/oat flour, flax egg, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until dough forms.
• Shape the crust: Transfer mixture to prepared baking sheet. Press into a ~10-inch circle, about ¼-inch thick. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until crust is set and edges just begin to crisp (it will continue to firm more as it cools). Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
• Add toppings: Spread pizza sauce evenly. Top with vegan cheese, extra broccoli, mushrooms, bell peppers, red onion, garlic, and optional chili flakes.
• Final bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese melts and toppings are heated.
• Finish + serve: Slice into 6-8 pieces. Drizzle with vegan worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar and enjoy!

DOCTOR’S ORDERS: The Health Benefits of Broccoli

Adding broccoli to your diet 2–3 times a week—whether steamed, roasted, or blended into soups—can help you unlock a host of health-protective benefits:

✅ Rich in Antioxidants
Helps neutralize toxins, reduce inflammation, and may lower your risk for certain cancers.

✅ Supports Heart Health
High in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants that support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

✅ Boosts Immunity
Packed with vitamin C to help your immune system fight off infections.

✅ Improves Digestive Health
The dietary fiber promotes regular bowel movements and gut health.

✅ Supports Bone Strength
A great source of vitamin K and calcium—two essential nutrients for strong bones and osteoporosis prevention.

✅ Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Loaded with flavonoids and carotenoids that combat chronic inflammation.

✅ Protects Eye Health
Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that guard against age-related macular degeneration.

✅ Helps Balance Blood Sugar
Its fiber and antioxidants may aid in better blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.

Nutrition at a Glance (per 1 cup cooked broccoli | ~156g)

• Calories: 55
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 11g
• Fiber: 5g
• Rich in vitamins C, K, A, folate, calcium, iron, and potassium

💡 Tip: Pair broccoli with a dash of lemon juice or mustard to activate sulforaphane, a compound with even more antioxidant power

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