Description

Craving a unique, summery dish that combines the comfort of pizza with the freshness of a salad? This Chopped Italian Salad Pizza is your perfect choice! Featuring a golden, olive oil-brushed pizza crust topped with creamy ricotta and a vibrant salad of Bibb lettuce, microgreens, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella balls, all tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette, this dish is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this Chopped Italian Salad Pizza. Each ingredient adds to the crispy, creamy, and zesty magic.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (⅓ cup, divided): Enhances dough crispness and enriches the dressing.
Pizza Dough (1 lb): Forms the crispy, golden base (use gluten-free or cauliflower dough for dietary needs).
Red Wine Vinegar (¼ cup): Provides tangy depth to the dressing.
Dijon Mustard (1 Tbsp): Adds sharp, savory flavor to the dressing.
Dried Oregano (Pinch): Brings classic Italian herbaceous notes.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Seasons the dressing and ricotta.
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, rich base.
Bibb Lettuce (1 head): Offers crisp, tender greens.
Microgreens (1 cup): Add delicate, peppery flavor.
Red Onion (½ small, thinly sliced into rings): Provides sharp, colorful crunch.
Pepperoncini (½ cup): Brings tangy, mildly spicy zing.
Bite-Size Fresh Mozzarella Balls (1 cup, drained): Add creamy, mild richness.

Substitutions and Variations

Pizza Dough: Swap with gluten-free dough or cauliflower crust for keto/gluten-free (~5g net carbs per serving with cauliflower crust).
Ricotta: Replace with goat cheese, mascarpone, or dairy-free ricotta for vegan.
Bibb Lettuce: Use romaine, arugula, or baby spinach for different greens.
Microgreens: Substitute with watercress or more lettuce for similar texture.
Pepperoncini: Swap with pickled jalapeños or banana peppers for varied heat.
Mozzarella Balls: Use crumbled feta, goat cheese, or vegan cheese for different flavors.
Red Wine Vinegar: Substitute with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different tangy note.
Keto Adjustment: Use cauliflower crust, reduce onion to ¼, and limit mozzarella to ½ cup (~5g net carbs per serving).
Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the dressing or include spicy pepperoncini.
Protein-Packed: Add ½ cup sliced salami, prosciutto, or grilled chicken for a non-vegetarian twist.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dough

Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Grease a baking sheet with 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil.
Gently stretch 1 lb pizza dough over the baking sheet, using your fingers to stipple and spread it evenly.
Brush the dough surface with 1 Tbsp olive oil and let rise in a warm place for 15–20 minutes.

Tip: Stretch dough gently to avoid tearing; let it rise for a lighter, crispier crust.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup red wine vinegar, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of dried oregano.
Gradually whisk in the remaining olive oil (about 2 Tbsp from the ⅓ cup total) to emulsify.
Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Tip: Whisk vigorously for a smooth dressing; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Add Ricotta and Bake

Spread 1 cup ricotta cheese in an even layer over the risen dough.
Season the ricotta with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes until the dough is golden brown.

Tip: Spread ricotta evenly for consistent flavor; check crust for doneness by lifting an edge.

Step 4: Cool the Pizza

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes to set.

Tip: Cooling prevents the salad from wilting when added; place on a wire rack if possible to avoid sogginess.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss together 1 head thinly sliced Bibb lettuce, 1 cup microgreens, and the prepared dressing.
Transfer the dressed salad to the cooled pizza, spreading it evenly.
Garnish with ½ small red onion (thinly sliced into rings), ½ cup pepperoncini, and 1 cup drained bite-size mozzarella balls.

Tip: Toss salad lightly to avoid bruising greens; arrange garnishes evenly for a balanced look.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, slicing the pizza into portions for easy sharing.

Tip: Use a sharp pizza cutter for clean slices; serve with extra dressing on the side for dipping.