When we think about comfort food, pizza is almost always near the top of the list. It’s warm, cheesy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. But what if we took everything we love about pizza and added a cool, crisp layer of fresh salad on top? That’s exactly what this Ricotta Salad Pizza does—and trust me, it’s a game-changer. Imagine a golden, olive-oil brushed crust that’s baked to bubbly perfection, slathered with creamy ricotta, and then topped with a tangy, crunchy salad. It’s a total flavor and texture bomb in the best way.
I first stumbled upon this idea on a weekend when I couldn’t decide between making a fresh salad or ordering pizza. You know those moments when you’re craving something wholesome, but also don’t want to give up the indulgent joy of a good cheesy bite? This recipe bridges that gap. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your pizza cravings but also loaded with bright, fresh elements that make it feel light and energizing.
What makes this ricotta salad pizza so special is how effortlessly it brings together hot and cold, creamy and crisp, savory and tangy. The ricotta acts like a soft, luxurious base that pairs beautifully with the golden, olive oil-kissed crust, while the salad on top adds a burst of freshness. Every bite is layered with flavor—from the briny zing of pepperoncini to the delicate creaminess of mozzarella balls.
This dish has quickly become a staple in my home, especially on nights when we want something that feels a bit elevated but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet fancy enough to serve at a dinner party. And the best part? It’s incredibly fun to make. Stretching the dough, whisking up a punchy vinaigrette, assembling the salad—it all feels so hands-on and rewarding, without being complicated.
Whether you’re a pizza purist or someone who loves trying fresh takes on classic favorites, this ricotta salad pizza will surprise and delight you. It’s a modern spin that doesn’t skimp on comfort, and once you’ve tried it, there’s a good chance you’ll be hooked.
Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Salad Pizza Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall head over heels for this unique recipe. First and foremost, it brings the best of both worlds: the cozy satisfaction of pizza and the crisp, refreshing qualities of a great salad. But let’s break down exactly why you’ll want to keep this in your rotation.
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
This recipe is proof that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. With store-bought pizza dough and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can pull this together in under an hour. There’s no need for special equipment or advanced cooking techniques. Even if you’ve never made pizza at home before, you can absolutely nail this.
The Flavor Combo is Irresistible
Creamy ricotta, sharp red onion, tangy vinegar, peppery microgreens, and rich mozzarella all work together to create something truly special. The crust adds warmth and structure, while the salad brings balance and brightness. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your tastebuds dance.
Perfect for Entertaining or Weeknight Dinners
Because it’s both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful, this dish is a fantastic option for guests. Serve it cut into squares for an appetizer, or make it the main event with a couple of simple sides. On busy weeknights, it’s also a reliable go-to since the prep is so quick and the results are always satisfying.
Versatile and Customizable
You can easily switch up the toppings or tweak the dressing to suit your preferences. Want more crunch? Add cucumbers or croutons. Prefer a bit of spice? Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil. The base recipe is super adaptable, which means you’ll never get bored.
Balanced, Light, and Still Comforting
Unlike some heavier pizza recipes, this one doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish. Thanks to the fresh greens and light ricotta, it’s nourishing without sacrificing that comforting, indulgent vibe we all crave.
A Great Way to Use Fresh Ingredients
Have extra salad greens, leftover ricotta, or random fridge finds you need to use up? This pizza is the perfect canvas for them. It’s a flexible recipe that makes the most out of everyday ingredients.
Health Benefits
While pizza isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind when you think of healthy eating, this particular version checks a lot of boxes. It’s full of fresh vegetables, heart-healthy fats, and wholesome ingredients that offer a surprising array of health benefits.
Packed with Nutrients from Fresh Vegetables
The lettuce, red onion, and optional microgreens aren’t just there for crunch and color—they’re also loaded with essential nutrients. Romaine and green leaf lettuce are great sources of vitamins A and K, which support eye health and blood clotting. Microgreens, if you choose to include them, can be surprisingly nutrient-dense, offering higher concentrations of antioxidants than mature greens.
Heart-Healthy Fats from Olive Oil
The recipe calls for extra-virgin olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These are the “good” fats that help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Olive oil is also high in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which are known to combat oxidative stress in the body.
Probiotics and Calcium from Ricotta and Mozzarella
Ricotta cheese contains calcium and, depending on the brand, may also provide a dose of probiotics that promote gut health. Mozzarella, especially the fresh kind used here, offers similar benefits, including a healthy amount of protein and B12. Plus, both cheeses add creaminess without being overly heavy or greasy.
Balanced Macronutrients
Each slice of this pizza delivers a nice balance of carbs, fats, and protein, especially when paired with a lean side dish or added toppings like grilled chicken. It’s the kind of meal that keeps you full and energized without weighing you down.
Portion Control and Whole Ingredients
Because the pizza is topped with salad, you naturally end up eating more veggies per bite, which can help with portion control. It’s also a great example of how whole, minimally processed ingredients can come together to make a meal that feels indulgent without relying on artificial flavors or excessive sodium.
Great for Digestive Health
With fiber from the greens and natural fermentation in the dough (especially if you use sourdough or artisan dough), this recipe is gentle on the digestive system. The pepperoncini adds a bit of fermentation too, which can be beneficial for gut health.
Whether you’re watching your health or just want a more balanced take on a beloved classic, this ricotta salad pizza is a smart and satisfying choice.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Before you head into the kitchen, let’s quickly go over what to expect in terms of prep time, how many people this recipe serves, and the basic nutrition facts.
Total Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Rising time for dough: 15–20 minutes
- Baking time: 18–20 minutes
- Cooling and assembly: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour
This timeline is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. You can even prep some elements in advance to save time later.
Servings
- This recipe makes approximately 4 generous servings.
- You can slice it into 8 smaller pieces for appetizers or party platters.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
These values will vary slightly depending on the brand of dough and cheese used, but overall, this is a balanced meal that offers a good mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins.
Ingredients List
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make a dish that’s both flavorful and visually stunning. Here’s everything you’ll need, plus a little insight into why each ingredient matters.
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided: This is your flavor base for the crust, dressing, and overall richness. Opt for a high-quality EVOO for the best taste.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds sharpness and depth to the dressing.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: For seasoning each layer of the dish.
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced into rings: Provides a crisp texture and mild sharpness to balance the creamy ricotta.
- 1 cup bite-size fresh mozzarella balls, drained: These little pearls of cheesy goodness add creaminess and a gentle tang.
- 1 pound store-bought pizza dough: Makes this recipe ultra convenient. You can also use homemade dough if you have time.
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar: The acid base of your dressing, bringing brightness and tang.
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1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds classic Italian flavor and earthy undertones to the vinaigrette.
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese: Acts as a luscious, creamy base for the salad and crust combo.
- 2 cups chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce: The salad foundation—crisp, fresh, and hydrating.
- 1 cup microgreens (optional): Optional but recommended for texture, color, and a nutritional boost.
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini: Adds zing and a slight kick to the salad.
Each ingredient plays an important role, contributing to the layers of flavor and contrasting textures that make this dish a standout.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients gathered and ready to go, let’s walk through the process step by step. Don’t worry—this recipe may look a little fancy when it’s plated, but the actual method is incredibly approachable. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll have a delicious ricotta salad pizza on the table in about an hour.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high heat is essential for achieving a beautifully golden, slightly crispy crust. While the oven heats, grease a baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a lovely richness to the bottom of the crust.
If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, you can use it for an even crispier base, but a standard baking sheet works just fine.
Step 2: Prepare and Stretch the Dough
Next, take your store-bought pizza dough (about 1 pound) and gently stretch it out across your prepared baking sheet. You want it to fill the sheet without tearing. If it resists or shrinks back while you stretch it, let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes it easier to handle.
Once your dough is nicely stretched, use your fingers to stipple the surface—this means gently pressing little indentations all over the dough. It helps create texture and holds the toppings better. Then, brush the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, making sure to coat it evenly. This will encourage a beautifully golden, slightly crispy crust once baked.
Now, let the dough rest in a warm spot in your kitchen for about 15–20 minutes. This final rise gives it a little extra airiness and chew.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
While your dough is rising and the oven continues to heat, it’s time to make the dressing that will bring the salad to life. In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- A pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Once those ingredients are combined, slowly drizzle in the remaining ⅓ cup olive oil (minus the amounts you’ve already used—so about 2–3 tablespoons left). Keep whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified and creamy.
Taste it at this stage. If it feels too sharp, you can mellow it out with a tiny splash of water or a touch more olive oil.
Step 4: Season and Spread the Ricotta
After your dough has rested and puffed up slightly, it’s time to add the first layer of flavor. Spread ¾ cup of ricotta cheese evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. The ricotta should be thick but spreadable—if it’s very watery, you can drain it beforehand using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Once the ricotta is spread out, season it lightly with salt and pepper. This is a small step, but it ensures every bite of the base is flavorful, not bland.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Place your baking sheet in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden and crisp, and the bottom is nicely browned. You’ll know it’s done when the crust bubbles slightly and starts to turn a beautiful amber color around the edges.
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool on the tray for 10–15 minutes. This allows the crust to firm up slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve later on.
Don’t skip the cooling step! If you add the salad while the crust is too hot, the greens will wilt and lose their freshness.
Step 6: Prepare the Salad
While your pizza is cooling, prepare the salad. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the following:
- 2 cups chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce
- 1 cup microgreens (optional, but they add a lovely texture and vibrant color)
Drizzle the salad with about half of the dressing you made earlier and toss to coat. You can add more dressing to taste, but it’s better to start small—you don’t want to overdress the salad and make it soggy.
At this stage, you can also season the salad with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Assemble the Ricotta Salad Pizza
Now for the fun part—assembling your masterpiece. Take your cooled, ricotta-topped pizza crust and carefully pile the dressed salad right on top, spreading it out evenly.
Then, layer on the finishing toppings:
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced into rings: Adds bite and color.
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini: Brings zing and a subtle heat.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained: Their creamy texture perfectly complements the crispy base.
These toppings don’t just add flavor—they create an eye-catching presentation that will make everyone excited to dig in.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice your ricotta salad pizza into squares or wedges, depending on your preference. Since the salad is piled on top, press gently with the knife so you don’t disturb the toppings too much.
Now serve and enjoy! This dish is best eaten immediately while the crust is still crisp and the salad is fresh.
How to Serve
This ricotta salad pizza is delicious as-is, but there are plenty of ways to style it for different occasions or make it more substantial depending on your needs.
Serve as a Main Dish
Because it includes a balance of protein, carbs, and greens, this pizza can easily stand on its own as a full meal. Just slice it into four large portions and pair it with a cold beverage or a light dessert for a complete dinner.
Turn It into a Party Appetizer
Hosting friends or family? Cut the pizza into small, square bites and serve it as a shareable appetizer. You can prep everything in advance and assemble right before serving. Guests love the contrast of warm crust and cool salad.
Lunch or Picnic Idea
This pizza holds up surprisingly well at room temperature, making it great for picnics, potlucks, or lunchboxes. Store the salad and crust separately, then assemble just before eating for maximum crunch.
Add a Protein Boost
If you’re looking to increase the protein content or make the dish more filling, consider topping it with grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas. These mix beautifully with the existing ingredients and help turn it into a heartier meal.
Next up, we’ll talk about how to pair this pizza with drinks and side dishes that bring out all of its best qualities.
Pairing Suggestions
One of the best things about this ricotta salad pizza—besides how good it tastes—is how versatile it is when it comes to pairing with other dishes and drinks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping a cozy weeknight dinner, or putting together a picnic spread, here are some thoughtful pairing ideas to make your meal even more memorable.
Side Dishes That Complement Without Overpowering
When serving this pizza, think light, bright, and fresh. You don’t want anything too rich or heavy competing with the crispness of the salad or the creaminess of the ricotta.
Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: A simple mix of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus pairs beautifully. Their natural sweetness and charred flavor play well with the tangy salad and fluffy crust.
Lemon-Garlic Green Beans: Steam or sauté green beans, then toss with a touch of lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. They’re zesty, snappy, and won’t steal the spotlight.
Crispy Chickpeas: If you want a bit of crunch and protein on the side, roast chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder. These make a great snack or topping.
Soup Pairings: In cooler weather, pair this pizza with a warm bowl of tomato basil soup or a smooth cauliflower soup. These classic pairings offer a nice contrast in temperature and texture.
Drink Pairings for Every Occasion
Although we’re keeping this recipe halal (so no wine), there are plenty of creative and flavorful non-alcoholic drinks that can elevate the experience.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: A chilled sparkling water flavored with lemon, lime, or orange slices helps cut through the richness of the ricotta and complements the tangy vinaigrette.
Mint-Lemon Iced Tea: Lightly brewed green tea with fresh mint leaves and a splash of lemon juice is refreshing and aromatic. It pairs especially well if you’re eating this outdoors or on a warm day.
Pomegranate Spritzer: Mix pomegranate juice with sparkling water, add a few crushed ice cubes and a sprig of rosemary or mint for a festive, fruity option.
Cucumber-Lime Cooler: Blend cucumber slices, lime juice, and a bit of honey or agave, then top with cold water or seltzer. It’s hydrating and subtly sweet.
Kid-Friendly Pairings
If you’re serving this to little ones or want to make it more family-friendly, pair it with soft dinner rolls, buttered noodles, or even baked sweet potato fries. These sides are gentle on the palate but satisfying enough for hungry eaters.
Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or a casual lunch, these pairings help round out the meal, enhance the flavors, and create a dining experience that feels thoughtful, delicious, and complete.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
While this ricotta salad pizza is best enjoyed fresh—right after the salad hits the warm crust—you can absolutely store leftovers and even prep parts of it ahead. Let’s break down how to store, freeze, and reheat so you can enjoy this dish with zero stress.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover pizza that’s already fully assembled (with the salad on top), it’s best to eat it within 24 hours. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The crust may soften slightly under the salad, but it’ll still taste great.
For better texture, consider storing the crust and salad separately. Let the crust cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Place the salad in a separate airtight container. Both components can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat the Pizza Base
To bring the crust back to life:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the crust (without salad) directly on the rack or a baking sheet. Warm for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through and lightly crisp.
- Toaster Oven: This works well for individual slices. Toast for 4–5 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat slices in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cover loosely to allow it to warm through without drying out. This also helps maintain a crisp bottom.
Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy.
Reassembling for Freshness
Once your crust is reheated and ready to go, top it with fresh salad and new mozzarella, red onions, and pepperoncini. This ensures you get that same vibrant, crisp finish, just like when it was first made.
Can You Freeze It?
Technically, you can freeze the pizza base with the ricotta already spread on it, but it’s best to avoid freezing the salad toppings. Here’s how to freeze the base properly:
- Allow the baked crust and ricotta to cool completely.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
Once reheated, prepare a fresh salad and toppings to add before serving. This approach saves time and still delivers a freshly made experience.
By separating components when storing or freezing, you maintain the contrast of textures and flavors that make this pizza so special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple and flexible recipe like this, there are a few pitfalls that can impact the final result. Here’s a list of common mistakes to watch out for, plus how to avoid them so your ricotta salad pizza turns out perfect every time.
Not Letting the Dough Rest
Store-bought pizza dough can be a little stubborn straight out of the fridge. If you try to stretch it too soon, it’ll snap back or tear. Let it rest at room temperature for at least 15–30 minutes before working with it. This softens the gluten and makes it easier to shape.
Skipping the Oil on the Baking Sheet
This step does more than just prevent sticking—it also gives your crust a golden, crispy bottom. Skimping on the olive oil or skipping it entirely can result in a dull, undercooked base.
Using Watery Ricotta
Ricotta cheese can contain excess moisture that might make your crust soggy. Be sure to drain it in a mesh strainer for 15–20 minutes before spreading. You can even blot it gently with a paper towel if you’re short on time.
Assembling the Salad Too Early
If you toss the salad with dressing too far in advance, it can wilt and lose its crunch. Wait until the crust has cooled and you’re ready to serve before combining the salad ingredients with the vinaigrette.
Topping the Pizza When It’s Too Hot
It might be tempting to pile on the salad right after the pizza comes out of the oven, but the heat will steam the greens and melt the cheese balls. Let the crust cool for 10–15 minutes so everything stays crisp and fresh.
Overloading the Toppings
It’s easy to get carried away, but adding too many toppings can weigh down the salad and make slicing difficult. Stick to the quantities in the recipe or adjust slightly based on personal preference, but try not to overload it.
Avoiding these simple mistakes ensures your final dish looks beautiful, holds up well, and delivers the contrast of textures and flavors that makes this recipe so irresistible.
Pro Tips
To help you master this ricotta salad pizza and really bring out the best in each bite, I’ve rounded up my go-to pro tips. These are the small tricks and tweaks I’ve learned through experience that take this recipe from good to absolutely incredible. Keep these in mind as you cook, and you’ll be well on your way to pizza night perfection.
1. Drain the Ricotta Before Using
This step is key to avoiding a soggy crust. Even if your ricotta looks thick, it likely contains more moisture than you think. Place it in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl for 15–20 minutes before using. You can also press it lightly with the back of a spoon or dab it with paper towels to help it dry out. Dry ricotta = a beautifully crisp bottom.
2. Let the Dough Come to Room Temperature
Cold dough is tough and resistant to stretching. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start working with it. If you’re in a rush, set the dough near your preheating oven for a gentle warm-up. Room temperature dough is easier to handle and bakes more evenly.
3. Brush the Crust with Olive Oil—Generously
The olive oil on the baking sheet and the surface of the dough does more than add flavor. It helps create that golden, crunchy exterior you want in a great pizza. Don’t be shy with it, especially around the edges.
4. Let the Pizza Cool Before Adding Salad
It can’t be said enough: if the crust is too hot, your salad will wilt and lose its texture. Give it 10–15 minutes to cool slightly. You still want a little warmth to soften the mozzarella balls just slightly, but not so much that everything starts to melt.
5. Dress the Salad Just Before Serving
If you’re prepping ahead, keep your salad and dressing separate. Tossing the greens too early causes them to go limp and lose that fresh snap. Mix everything together only when the pizza is ready to be assembled and served.
6. Use a Pizza Cutter or Serrated Knife
Once your pizza is ready to serve, use a sharp pizza cutter or serrated knife for clean slices that don’t drag the salad across the crust. A chef’s knife can work, but be gentle so you don’t press down too hard and compress the crust.
7. Add Extra Crunch with Seeds or Nuts
Want to level up the salad topping? Sprinkle on some toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped almonds. They add a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta and chewy crust.
8. Play with Different Greens
Romaine and green leaf lettuce are classic, but don’t be afraid to mix in arugula, baby spinach, or even thinly sliced kale for a peppery or earthy twist. Just make sure to balance stronger greens with a touch more dressing.
9. Make It Your Own
Once you’ve made the original version a few times, get creative. Add grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even a swirl of chili oil. The base of ricotta and salad is endlessly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
10. Use High-Quality Ingredients
Because this pizza is made with just a few core components, every ingredient really counts. Use good olive oil, fresh mozzarella, and ripe, crisp greens. It’ll make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
By keeping these pro tips in mind, you’ll not only avoid common mistakes but elevate this already-delicious dish to restaurant-worthy status—right from your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When a recipe combines cooked and fresh elements like this one, it’s natural to have a few questions. Here are the most common FAQs I’ve received, along with clear, practical answers to help you feel confident and ready to cook.
Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite pizza dough recipe or enjoy making it from scratch, go for it. Just make sure to give it a proper rise and rest before stretching. Whether homemade or store-bought, the key is to let the dough come to room temperature for easy handling.
What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute with white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even lemon juice in a pinch. Just be aware that each has a slightly different flavor profile. Red wine vinegar is bold and fruity, so if you swap it out, taste and adjust as needed.
Is it okay to use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta, though it may be a bit more watery. Make sure to drain it well before spreading it on the dough to avoid a soggy crust. Full-fat ricotta will offer a richer flavor and creamier texture, but both versions work.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prep several components in advance. Bake the crust with the ricotta and let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat before topping with the salad and serving. You can also make the dressing ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What can I use instead of microgreens?
If you can’t find microgreens or want to use something more affordable, baby spinach, arugula, or finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill make great alternatives. Microgreens are optional but add a nice touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Are there gluten-free options?
Yes! Look for gluten-free pizza dough at most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so the dough is the only swap you need to make.
What kind of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella balls (also called bocconcini or ciliegine) are ideal for this recipe because they add creaminess without overwhelming the salad. If you only have shredded mozzarella, you can use that in a pinch, but try to sprinkle it lightly so it doesn’t weigh down the salad.
Can I make it spicy?
Definitely. Add crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta before baking or stir a bit of chili oil into your vinaigrette. You can also add sliced jalapeños or spicy pickled vegetables on top for extra heat.
How long will leftovers keep?
Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store the crust and salad separately if possible. The crust can be reheated in the oven, while the salad is best enjoyed cold and freshly dressed.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully. Just double all the ingredients and use two baking sheets. Make sure to rotate them halfway through baking for even cooking, and use a larger bowl to toss the salad if you’re serving a crowd.
These FAQs should help clarify anything that might pop up as you make this ricotta salad pizza. Still curious about something? Feel free to leave a comment or reach out—there’s no such thing as a silly question in the kitchen!
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you’ve made it this far, then you’re probably just as excited about this ricotta salad pizza as I am—and for good reason. It’s one of those dishes that surprises you in all the best ways. It takes everything you love about pizza (chewy crust, creamy cheese, rich flavor) and fuses it with everything you crave from a good salad (crisp greens, tangy vinaigrette, fresh veggies). The result? A pizza that feels like a full, vibrant meal—something you can feel great about serving and even better about eating.
What I love most about this recipe is how accessible it is. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or special tools. Just some fresh produce, a ball of pizza dough, and a few pantry staples. And while it’s simple to make, the flavors come together in a way that feels elevated and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or trying to impress your friends at a get-together, this is a dish that adapts to every table and every occasion.
It’s also a conversation starter. The contrast of warm and cool, crispy and creamy, makes every bite exciting—and it’s just plain fun to eat. Don’t be surprised if people ask you for the recipe after the first bite. It’s that kind of meal.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let your kitchen become the stage for something truly delicious. Once you’ve made this once, I have a feeling it’s going to find a permanent spot in your weekly meal lineup. And I’d absolutely love to see how your version turns out!
If you make this ricotta salad pizza, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me. I always enjoy seeing your takes on the recipe—and hey, you might just inspire someone else to try it too.
Let’s keep making food that feels good, tastes amazing, and brings a little extra joy to our dinner tables. Happy cooking!
PrintRicotta Salad Pizza – Crispy Crust with Fresh Salad Toppings
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A delicious twist on traditional pizza featuring a golden, olive oil-brushed crust topped with creamy ricotta and a crisp, tangy salad. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining!
Ingredients
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⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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½ small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
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1 cup bite-size fresh mozzarella balls, drained
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1 pound store-bought pizza dough
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¼ cup red wine vinegar
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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¾ cup ricotta cheese
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2 cups chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce
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1 cup microgreens (optional)
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½ cup sliced pepperoncini
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450°F. Grease baking sheet with 2 tbsp olive oil.
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Stretch dough on the baking sheet, stipple with fingers, brush with 1 tbsp olive oil, and let rise 15–20 min.
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Whisk vinegar, mustard, oregano, and remaining olive oil to make dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
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Spread ricotta over dough, season with salt and pepper.
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Bake 18–20 min until crust is golden. Cool for 10–15 min.
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Toss lettuce and microgreens with dressing.
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Top cooled crust with salad, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella balls. Serve immediately.
Notes
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For extra crispiness, toast the bottom crust in a skillet before topping with salad.
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Salad can be customized with arugula, cucumbers, or even toasted seeds for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Fusion / Italian-inspired
- Cuisine: Fusion / Italian-inspired