Filipinos have long known about the powerhouse of nutrients packed into the humble moringa plant, or as it's locally known, malunggay. Traditionally used in soups and broths, this "miracle tree" is now getting a modern, international twist. Get ready to transform your pizza night from an indulgence into a nutrient-dense feast with this Moringa Pesto Pizza recipe!
We all love pizza, but let's be honest, it's not always the healthiest choice. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? This recipe swaps out the traditional tomato-based sauce for a vibrant, homemade moringa pesto. Moringa is a superfood, packed with vitamins and minerals. It's an excellent source of:
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A, B vitamins, and Vitamin C.
- Minerals: A good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
- Antioxidants: Loaded with antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
- Protein: Moringa leaves are surprisingly high in protein.
By incorporating moringa into your pizza, you're not just adding a unique and delicious flavor; you're also boosting its nutritional value.
Moringa Pesto Pizza Recipe
This recipe is simple, delicious, and a great way to introduce the health benefits of moringa to your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Moringa Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh moringa leaves, stems removed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or cashews
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or your favorite homemade dough)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional toppings: grilled chicken, artichoke hearts, red onion slices, or your favorite vegetables.
Instructions
To make the moringa pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the moringa leaves, basil leaves, toasted nuts, and garlic. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to combine.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To assemble the pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread a generous layer of the moringa pesto over the pizza crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes and any other desired toppings over the cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite! You'll be amazed at how a simple change of sauce can elevate your pizza from a guilty pleasure to a guilt-free, nutrient-packed meal.
More Ways to Power Up Your Pizza with Moringa
Not everyone is a pesto fan, but that shouldn't stop you from getting the amazing benefits of moringa on your pizza night. Here are a couple of other easy ways to sneak its goodness into your favorite pizza recipe.
1. Mix Moringa Powder into the Pizza Dough
This is a fantastic way to create a super-powered pizza base from the ground up.
How to do it: Simply add 1 to 2 tablespoons of moringa powder to your dry ingredients (flour, salt, yeast) when making your pizza dough from scratch. If you're using a store-bought mix, just whisk the powder into the mix before adding the wet ingredients.
What to expect: The moringa will give your pizza crust a beautiful light green tint and a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with both tomato and white sauces. It’s a great way to get those extra nutrients in, especially for picky eaters who might not like visible greens.
2. Boost Your Traditional Pizza Sauce
You can easily enhance your favorite tomato-based pizza sauce with a dash of moringa.
How to do it: Take your regular pizza sauce, whether it's homemade or from a jar. For a standard 12-inch pizza, stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of moringa powder until it's fully combined. Taste it and add a little more if you like, but be mindful that the flavor can be quite potent.
What to expect: The powder will blend right in, deepening the color of your sauce. It adds an earthy undertone that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the savory flavors of herbs like oregano and basil.
3. Use it as a Finishing Garnish
The easiest method of all! Use moringa as you would a dried herb or spice.
How to do it:
- Fresh Leaves: If you have access to fresh malunggay, scatter a handful of the leaves over your pizza along with your other toppings before baking. They'll wilt slightly and add a mild, peppery flavor.
- Powder: For a simple finishing touch, lightly sprinkle about half a teaspoon of moringa powder over the entire pizza right after it comes out of the oven.
What to expect: This method adds a final boost of nutrition and a touch of vibrant green color, making your pizza look as healthy as it is.
By using one of these methods, you can still enjoy a delicious, indulgent pizza night while making it a healthier, more nutrient-dense meal for everyone to enjoy!