Cauliflower Crust Pizza

Hubby and I were looking for lower carb recipes to try. One of his coworkers had recently brought in a cauliflower crust pizza. After doing a little searching and playing with a few recipes, here is my version. It is a little time consuming, but it is a great lower carb option to a flour based pizza.

You will need:

• 1-2 large cauliflowers, or 4 cups shredded cauliflower
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon onion power
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Toppings: Pizza sauce, shredded Mozzarella cheese, ham, pineapple, pepperoni, veggies, etc.
• Parchment paper
• Food processor or a grater (food processor is easier)

Directions:

1.   Cut the florets off of the heads of cauliflower (you want mostly the florets and not a lot of stem). Wash and dry.

2.   Shred the cauliflower. You want it to be small crumbles, not a puree.

3.   Place the shredded cauliflower in a microwave safe bowl and cover with a clean towel. Microwave for 4 minutes. Let sit for a few minutes to cool.

4.   Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. DM Tip: I tried with just spraying the tray and with my silicon mat. The parchment paper works best.

5.   Place cauliflower in a clean dish towel and wring out. You want to get as much water out as possible. DM Tip: I found it best to do some of the cauliflower at a time instead of over filling the
towel. I also had hubby wring it out when I was done since I knew he could squeeze some more out.

6.   Dump the wrung out cauliflower into a bowl. Add in seasonings, egg, Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses. Mix together. I found it easier to use my hands to make sure it was mixed together well. (Hubby likes a lightly seasoned crust, but if you like a stronger flavor try doubling the amount of seasonings.)

7.   Place the dough onto the parchment paper and form into a rectangular or circular crust, about 1/3" thick. You want it to be tightly formed together, without holes or gaps. 

8.   Bake the crust for about 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown all over and firm.

9.   Top with sauce and toppings. I would recommend going with a thick sauce or use lightly if using a watery sauce. My first attempt with a watery sauce made the middle of the crust a little soggy.

10. Bake another 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

11. Remove from oven and enjoy! I had a ham and pineapple and Hubby had a 1/2 veggie and 1/2 pepperoni pizza.

DM Tip: Because these are so time consuming, you could probably make an extra pizza for later at the same time. Wrap it plastic wrap or aluminium foil, seal in a freezer bag and save for later. Thaw and bake as directed above.