In the world of speedy, satisfying suppers, these pizzas just might take the trophy. They're ready in the time it takes to turn on the oven and roast a few vegetables; hummus provides a creamy, flavorful base that's eminently customizable; and the whole-wheat pita--a sturdy blank canvas just waiting for toppings--is a one-stop shop for a crispy crust and chewy interior. Top them with whatever you have on hand: Roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, salty cheese... the combinations are endless.
The story of how these pizzas came to be is a tale of serendipity and culinary alchemy. It all started with a leftover container of hummus, languishing in the depths of my refrigerator. As I pondered its fate, my gaze fell upon a bag of pita bread, its contents stale and forlorn. In a moment of inspiration, I decided to marry the two, spreading the hummus over the pita and topping it with whatever vegetables I had on hand. The result was surprisingly delightful: a crispy, flavorful base topped with a creamy, savory spread and an array of vibrant vegetables. Ever since that fateful day, these pizzas have become a staple in my weeknight repertoire, a testament to the power of pantry staples and a little bit of culinary imagination.
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 12 | Serves: 2
Ingredients
2 whole-wheat pitas
1/2 cup hummus
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped zucchini
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Spread hummus evenly over the pitas.
Top with vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted.
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Why It Works
The whole-wheat pita provides a sturdy base that's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, providing a satisfying foundation for your toppings.
Hummus is a creamy, flavorful spread that adds richness and depth to the pizza. It's also a great way to sneak in some extra protein and fiber.
Roasted vegetables add a vibrant array of colors and flavors to the pizza. They're also a great way to use up leftover vegetables or clean out your refrigerator.
Fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic touch to the pizza. They're also a great way to add some extra nutrients.
Salty cheese, such as Parmesan or feta, adds a savory, umami flavor to the pizza. It also helps to brown the vegetables.