California Veggie Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen features a fresh blend of zucchini, squash, red onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives on a crispy thin crust, topped with melted mozzarella and provolone cheeses for a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian delight.
Equipments
- Oven (preferably pizza oven or conventional oven)
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pizza peel (optional)
- Pastry brush (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 ball pizza dough (about 12-14 oz)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced zucchini
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced yellow squash
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
When preparing your California Veggie Pizza, ensure that the pizza dough is fresh and properly rested to achieve a crispy thin crust. Use a balanced blend of shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses to replicate the gooey, melted topping characteristic of California Pizza Kitchen's version. The assortment of sliced zucchini, yellow squash, red onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives should be evenly distributed for optimal flavor and texture. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables. You can recreate the vibrant and flavorful California Veggie Pizza from the California Pizza Kitchen copycat menu with these ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- On a floured surface, roll out pizza dough to 12-inch circle.
- Transfer dough to parchment paper or pizza peel.
- Brush dough lightly with olive oil.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over dough, leaving a border for crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheeses evenly over sauce.
- Evenly distribute zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives over cheese.
- Season vegetables lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Slide pizza (with parchment, if using) onto preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and crust is golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven; cool slightly.
- Slice and serve.
Substitution
California Veggie Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen copycat menu calls for a mix of fresh vegetables and a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, but you can easily substitute provolone with fontina or gouda for a different melty texture and flavor. If you don't have zucchini or yellow squash, thinly sliced bell peppers or asparagus make excellent alternatives that maintain the pizza's vibrant taste. Using a store-bought pizza dough is convenient, but homemade dough adds a personal touch and freshness. When spreading the vegetables, avoid overcrowding the crust to ensure even cooking and a crispy base. Your choice of olives can vary from black to Kalamata for deeper, briny notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Tips
Make sure your oven and pizza stone or baking sheet are fully preheated to 475degF before baking to achieve a crispy, golden crust. Roll out your pizza dough evenly to about 12 inches to ensure uniform cooking and prevent soggy or undercooked spots. Lightly brushing olive oil on the dough edge before adding toppings helps create a golden, flavorful crust edge. When distributing your fresh vegetables, season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavors and balance the overall taste of your California Veggie Pizza.
Nutritions
California Veggie Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen offers a nutritious balance of vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and fiber, such as zucchini, squash, red onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives. The combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses provides a good source of protein and calcium, supporting bone health. Your meal includes healthy fats from olive oil, which promote heart health and enhance nutrient absorption. This pizza serves as a wholesome vegetarian option with a moderate calorie profile, perfect for maintaining balanced nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover California Veggie Pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate your pizza within two hours of baking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness and melted cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment by adding fresh basil or spinach leaves for added color and a touch of herbal flavor. Substitute the mozzarella with fresh mozzarella balls or burrata for a creamier texture. Roast the vegetables beforehand to deepen their flavors before placing them on the pizza. Consider brushing the crust with garlic-infused olive oil to enhance the savory profile of your pie.
Allergies
The California Veggie Pizza contains common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella and provolone cheeses, which may affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Your sensitivity to gluten should also be considered since the dish includes traditional wheat-based pizza dough. People with specific vegetable allergies should check ingredients like mushrooms, tomatoes, or olives before consuming.
Why this recipe?
California Veggie Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen features a vibrant blend of fresh vegetables, including artichokes, mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes, creating a flavorful and healthy option for pizza lovers. The combination of a thin, crispy crust with a rich tomato sauce and a blend of mozzarella and fontina cheeses enhances the pizza's taste and texture, making it a favorite among customers. You'll appreciate the unique balance of savory and fresh ingredients, which sets this pizza apart from traditional options. Attempting a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy the signature flavors at home while customizing toppings to suit your personal taste preferences.