Four-Cheese Spinach Pizza
I adapted this recipe from one given to me by my Aunt Rosemary. I especially like to make this pizza in summer when fresh spinach and basil are plentiful—they are key to the wonderful taste. —Barbara Robinson of Hamburg, Pennsylvania
I adapted this recipe from one given to me by my Aunt Rosemary. I especially like to make this pizza in summer when fresh spinach and basil are plentiful—they are key to the wonderful taste. —Barbara Robinson of Hamburg, Pennsylvania
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced ripe olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 medium tomato chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh basil
- 1 prebaked 12-inch thin pizza crust
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) fresh spinach
- 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup fat-free cottage cheese
- Carbohydrate 2.8373946892676 g
- Cholesterol 14.3227777808925 mg
- Fat 4.48137069833169 g
- Fiber 0.575615597086318 g
- Protein 5.51634651982111 g
- Saturated Fat 2.58251704711215 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (66g)
- Sodium 308.750838236406 mg
- Sugar 2.26177909218128 g
- Trans Fat 0.244129780524619 g
- Calories 73 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, saute spinach for 2-3 minutes or until wilted; remove from the skillet. Cool slightly; chop.
- In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the spinach, salt and pepper. Spread over crust to within 1/2 in. of edge.
- In a large bowl, combine the tomato, onions, olives, basil, oil, vinegar and garlic; sprinkle over spinach mixture.
- Top with the feta cheese and remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake at 400 degrees for 12-14 minutes or until cheese softens and is lightly browned.
My Favorite Four-Cheese Spinach Pizza: A Summertime Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a real challenge. But there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a homemade meal for my family, especially when it's something as simple and rewarding as this Four-Cheese Spinach Pizza. This recipe, passed down from my Aunt Rosemary, has become a summer staple in our house. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the spinach and basil are perfectly complemented by the creamy textures and salty tang of the four cheeses. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent, and it's surprisingly quick to put together, even on a busy weeknight.
What I love most about this pizza is its versatility. It's easy to adapt to whatever ingredients I have on hand. Sometimes I'll add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or swap out the olives for sun-dried tomatoes. The base remains the same: a delicious combination of creamy cottage cheese, sharp Parmesan, salty feta, and melty mozzarella. The spinach, wilted just enough to retain its vibrant green color and some texture, adds a welcome earthy note that cuts through the richness of the cheeses. The simple tomato and basil topping elevates the dish to another level.
The pre-made pizza crust is a real time-saver, and allows me to focus on what truly matters: the delicious combination of flavors. But, if you are feeling ambitious, you could easily make your own homemade dough. It's a delightful project for a weekend afternoon. Regardless of whether you use a store bought or homemade crust, I always recommend using good quality ingredients – it makes all the difference! It also always helps to remember to season liberally with salt and pepper to really let the flavors pop. And, of course, a good quality balsamic vinegar adds a delightful finish.
This pizza isn't just for summer. It's a comfort food that transcends the seasons. On a chilly autumn evening, it's a perfect cozy meal to share with the family. It warms the heart and the stomach. And it always brings a smile to my face, reminiscent of happy summer evenings spent with family. The memories linked to the recipe have been passed down through generations in my family and I hope to continue sharing this tradition for years to come. It's become a delicious, timeless classic. The ease and speed of this recipe along with its unique flavor profile makes it a consistent winner for any occasion or celebration.
Beyond the deliciousness, this pizza is also a great way to get my family to eat their greens! Sometimes getting children to eat their vegetables can be a challenge. I found that creating a pizza with spinach makes it much more appealing for my picky eaters. They get their vegetables without even realizing it! This is a dish that is not just delicious, but also incredibly nutritious.
So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful pizza recipe that's perfect for any occasion, give this Four-Cheese Spinach Pizza a try. You won't be disappointed! It's a recipe that's as much about the memories as it is about the taste. It is the perfect blend of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create something truly special. This recipe is more than just a pizza; it's a culinary hug that perfectly balances taste and ease, providing nourishment and a bit of happy nostalgia.
The best part? Clean up is a breeze. This recipe requires minimal dishes, leaving you with more time to spend with your loved ones and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Seriously, give it a try. It’s a game changer, and I know you'll love it as much as we do.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Change up the veggies: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the olives, or add some roasted red peppers for extra sweetness.
- Make it vegetarian: Use your favorite vegetarian sausage or mushroom substitutes.
- Homemade crust: Try making your own pizza dough for a more authentic taste. Many recipes are easily available online.
Enjoy!
