Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (e.g., basil, parsley, chives)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 8 ounces (225g) button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough: Dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let stand until foamy. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; mix until a dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise until doubled.
  2. Roast the Vegetables: Preheat oven. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast until tender and slightly browned.
  3. Make the Herbed Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream/yogurt, garlic, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Assemble the Pizza: Preheat oven to a higher temperature. Punch down dough and roll out into a large circle or rectangle. Transfer to a baking sheet (lined with parchment paper, if desired). Spread the herbed cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Top with roasted vegetables and mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil (if desired). Slice and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious vegetable pizza recipe.