Tomato Basil Chickpea Crust Pizza

Short description
A light and wholesome pizza featuring a chickpea flour crust topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil. It’s a delicious gluten-free option with plenty of flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gluten-free and protein-rich thanks to the chickpea flour crust
• Fresh, vibrant ingredients make every bite flavorful
• Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup
• Versatile for dietary needs (vegetarian, easily made vegan)
• Perfect for light lunches, dinners, or casual entertaining

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• Chickpea flour
• Water
• Olive oil
• Baking powder
• Salt

For the toppings:

• Olive oil (for brushing and drizzling)
• Fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
• Grated Parmesan
• Plum tomatoes, very thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour and salt. Gradually add water, olive oil, and baking powder, whisking until smooth. Let the batter rest at room temperature for about 2 hours.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a ladle of the batter and swirl to form a thin layer. Cook for about 2 minutes until set, then remove. Repeat with remaining batter.
4. Transfer the partially cooked crusts onto baking sheets. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil.
5. Top each crust with sliced mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Resting time: 2 hours
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary to the batter for added flavor
• Swap fresh mozzarella for dairy-free cheese for a vegan option
• Use sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes as alternatives to plum tomatoes
• Top with arugula or spinach instead of basil
• Add sliced olives, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled vegetables for extra toppings

Storage / Reheating

• Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and slightly crisp
• Crusts can be cooked ahead and frozen for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen in the oven

FAQs

1. Can I use another flour instead of chickpea flour?

Chickpea flour is preferred for its texture and protein, but you could experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond or rice flour.

2. Do I have to let the batter rest?

Yes, resting helps the flour absorb moisture, resulting in a smoother and better-textured crust.

3. Can I make the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before cooking.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, by using plant-based cheese or omitting cheese altogether, the recipe becomes fully vegan.

5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended for best texture and flavor, but you can use drained canned tomato slices in a pinch.

6. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Precook the crust and avoid overloading with watery toppings to keep it crisp.

7. Can I cook the crust entirely in the skillet?

You can, but baking helps achieve a firmer, more traditional pizza-like texture.

8. What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

A preheated baking sheet will work well as an alternative to crisp the crust.

9. How thin should I spread the batter?

The batter should be spread as thinly as possible to achieve a light, crisp crust.

10. Can I freeze the batter instead of the cooked crust?

It’s better to freeze the cooked crust. The batter may separate or change texture when frozen.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Chickpea Crust Pizza is a fresh, satisfying, and health-conscious take on classic pizza. With its crispy, flavorful crust and vibrant toppings, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re avoiding gluten or just exploring new options, this recipe is a delicious and easy addition to your meal rotation.

Print