Low Carb Eggplant Pizza is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle. The eggplant slices serve as the “crust,” and the toppings are fully customizable, just like a regular pizza. It’s a simple, flavorful, and guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2-1 cup no sugar added pizza sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch rounds.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the eggplant slices for 15-20 minutes, or until they are softened and lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and top each slice with pizza sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to heat through.
- Serve and enjoy your low carb eggplant pizza!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Cheese: Top with your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or goat cheese, for a classic pizza flavor.
- Toppings: Add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, or even pepperoni or sausage for a meatier option.
- Spices: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese to make this dish suitable for a vegan or dairy-free diet.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover eggplant pizzas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes or until heated through, to keep the crust crispy.
10 FAQs
- Can I use regular pizza sauce? Yes, but it’s best to choose a no-sugar-added pizza sauce for a healthier option.
- How thick should the eggplant slices be? Aim for about 1/2-inch thick slices to ensure they cook through while still holding their shape.
- Can I use eggplant as a pizza crust for other types of pizza? Yes, you can top the eggplant with whatever toppings you prefer to create a personalized pizza.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the eggplant slices and bake them in advance, then store them in the refrigerator and top with sauce and cheese before reheating.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Can I freeze the eggplant pizzas? While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the baked eggplant slices and top them with sauce and cheese later.
- How can I make the eggplant slices less bitter? If your eggplant is bitter, sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing off the salt and patting them dry.
- Can I use another vegetable instead of eggplant? Zucchini or portobello mushrooms can also serve as great alternatives to eggplant.
- Can I add meat to the pizza? Absolutely! Ground turkey, sausage, or pepperoni are all great options to add to your eggplant pizza.
- How do I know when the eggplant is done baking? The eggplant slices should be tender and slightly browned around the edges.
Conclusion
Low Carb Eggplant Pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza without the carbs. The eggplant provides a healthy, satisfying base, while the no-sugar-added pizza sauce and your favorite toppings complete this dish. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for anyone looking for a lighter alternative to traditional pizza. Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or main course!