Keto Garlicky Kale and Ricotta Pizza
This rustic pizza combines earthy sautéed kale with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella for a satisfying vegetarian meal. The garlic-infused kale adds depth while the ricotta provides richness without overwhelming the fresh flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining when you want something more sophisticated than basic pizza but still approachable. The combination of textures from crispy crust, tender greens, and creamy cheese makes each bite satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F
- 2
Remove kale leaves from stems and tear into 2-inch pieces, then rinse well
- 3
Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat for about one minute until soft and fragrant
- 4
Add kale and continue sautéing for about 5 minutes until wilted, season with salt
- 5
Stretch pizza dough to 12-14 inches and place on pizza pan
- 6
Combine olive oil and garlic powder, then brush onto dough surface
- 7
Scatter sautéed kale over surface, add dollops of ricotta, then sprinkle mozzarella over top
- 8
Bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is browned, cheese is melted and beginning to brown at edges
- 9
Slice into 8 pieces and serve
Tips
Massage kale with a pinch of salt before sautéing to help break down tough fibers and reduce cooking time.
Use a pizza stone preheated in the oven for 30 minutes for an extra crispy crust.
Don't overload with toppings as this can make the crust soggy and prevent proper browning.
Good to Know
Store leftover pizza covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes until warmed through.
Kale can be sautéed up to 2 days ahead and stored covered in refrigerator. Assemble pizza just before baking for best results.
Serve immediately while cheese is still bubbly. Cut into wedges with a pizza wheel or sharp knife.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip rinsing kale to avoid gritty texture from dirt and debris.
Avoid oversautéing kale to prevent it from becoming mushy on the pizza.
Don't use too much ricotta to prevent a soggy crust.
Substitutions
reduces fat content
FAQ
Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw frozen kale completely and squeeze out excess moisture before sautéing. Reduce cooking time to 2-3 minutes since it's already partially cooked.
What if I don't have ricotta cheese?
Substitute with cottage cheese, goat cheese, or cream cheese. Cottage cheese should be drained, while goat cheese adds tangy flavor.
How long does leftover pizza keep?
Properly stored leftover pizza keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven rather than microwave for best texture.