Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight just saying it makes my mouth water. You know that feeling when you’re craving something comforting, but you want it to feel special? That’s exactly how this pizza came to be in my kitchen.
I’m Emeli, and here at FoodFansy, I’m all about bringing you recipes that make your heart happy without the stress. A few years ago, I was traveling through a small coastal town in Greece, and I stumbled upon a tiny pizzeria tucked between whitewashed buildings. The owner, a grandmother with flour-dusted hands, made the most incredible white pizza I’d ever tasted creamy, garlicky, with fresh spinach that still had a bite to it. No tomato sauce, just pure, simple flavors that sang together.
When I came home, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. So I got to work recreating that magic, and this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight was born. It’s become my go-to when I want to impress dinner guests or just treat myself on a cozy Friday night.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: why this recipe works so beautifully, how to prep your ingredients for maximum flavor, step-by-step cooking instructions that even beginners can master, and some pro tips I’ve picked up along the way. Plus, I’ll share flavor variations, serving ideas, and answer your most common pizza questions. Let’s make something unforgettable together.
Why This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight Works
This isn’t your average pizza night it’s a game-changer. Here’s why this recipe has become a FoodFansy favorite:
- Roasted garlic is the secret weapon: Unlike raw garlic, roasted garlic brings a sweet, mellow depth that doesn’t overpower. Mixed with creamy ricotta, it creates a sauce that’s luxurious yet light.
- The white sauce base means no soggy crust: Traditional tomato sauce can make crusts soggy if you’re not careful. This ricotta-garlic blend sits perfectly on the dough, creating a crisp base every time.
- Fresh spinach adds nutrition without heaviness: A whole cup of spinach wilts down beautifully, giving you those vibrant greens and earthy flavor without weighing down your slice.
- Three cheeses = flavor complexity: Ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for that perfect cheese pull, and feta for a tangy, salty kick that screams “Greek!”
- Ready in under 30 minutes: From prep to plate, this pizza comes together faster than delivery, and tastes a thousand times better.
- Incredibly versatile: Serve it as a weeknight dinner, slice it into appetizers for a party, or pack it cold for lunch the next day (trust me, it’s delicious even at room temperature).
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
The beauty of this pizza is in its simplicity, which means each ingredient really matters. Let’s talk about making smart choices.
Best Dough for This Recipe
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Listen, I love making dough from scratch there’s something therapeutic about it. But store-bought dough is a total lifesaver, and there’s zero shame in using it. Look for dough in your grocery store’s refrigerated section (near the biscuits) or ask your local pizzeria if they sell dough balls.
What to look for: If buying store-bought, choose dough that lists simple ingredients: flour, water, yeast, salt, and maybe a touch of olive oil. Avoid anything with a bunch of preservatives.
Pro tip: Let your dough come to room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling. Cold dough is stubborn and will spring back constantly. Room-temp dough? It rolls out like a dream.
Cheese Selection Tips
Ricotta: Go for whole-milk ricotta the extra richness is worth it. If your ricotta seems watery, drain it in a fine-mesh strainer for 10 minutes before using.
Mozzarella: I prefer low-moisture mozzarella for pizza because fresh mozzarella can release too much water. Shred it yourself rather than buying pre-shredded; those bags contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Feta: Look for block feta in brine, not the pre-crumbled stuff. It’s more flavorful and has better texture. Greek or Bulgarian feta work beautifully here.
Spinach and Garlic
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is ideal it’s tender and doesn’t need stemming. Give it a good wash and pat it completely dry. Excess water is the enemy of a crispy crust.
Roasted garlic paste: You can make this by roasting whole garlic heads (slice off the top, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, roast at 400°F for 40 minutes) or buy jarred roasted garlic paste. Homemade is more flavorful, but jarred works in a pinch.
Substitutions
No ricotta? Mix cream cheese with a splash of milk for a similar creamy base.
Out of feta? Goat cheese gives a tangy punch, or use Parmesan for a nuttier flavor.
Frozen spinach? Thaw it completely and squeeze out ALL the water I’m talking really wring it out. Use about ½ cup frozen (it’s more concentrated than fresh).
Ingredients & Prep for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Let’s get everything organized before we start cooking. Mise en place, as they say in professional kitchens it makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Dough & Sauce Essentials
- 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp roasted garlic paste
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried oregano
Dough Prep Essentials
Step 1: Remove your pizza dough from the refrigerator 30 minutes before you plan to use it. This relaxation time makes it easier to stretch without tearing.
Step 2: Lightly flour your work surface but don’t go overboard. Too much flour can make your crust tough.
Step 3: If your dough keeps shrinking back when you roll it, let it rest for another 5 minutes. The gluten needs time to relax.
Sauce & Topping Prep
Make your white sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the roasted garlic paste. Mix until smooth. Taste it this is your flavor foundation. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
Prep your spinach: Roughly chop your fresh spinach into bite-sized pieces. If the leaves are very large, tear them with your hands. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.
Shred your cheese: If you bought block mozzarella, shred it on the large holes of a box grater. Do the same with the feta crumble it into small chunks.
Season intelligently: Have your salt, pepper, and oregano within arm’s reach. You’ll be seasoning in layers for maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Now comes the fun part putting it all together. I’ll walk you through each step so you get perfect results every single time.
Pre-Cooking Prep for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and I mean really preheat it. Give it a full 20-30 minutes to heat up. A screaming-hot oven is the secret to restaurant-quality pizza at home.
Prepare your pizza pan: Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil on your pizza pan or baking sheet. Use your fingers to spread it around, covering the entire surface. Then dust lightly with cornmeal this creates a crispy, slightly crunchy base that prevents sticking. (If you don’t have cornmeal, a light dusting of flour works too, but cornmeal adds that authentic pizzeria texture.)
Roll out your dough: On a floured surface, use a rolling pin or your hands to stretch the dough into your desired shape. I usually go for a 12-inch circle, but freeform rustic ovals are beautiful too. If you’re feeling fancy, leave the edges slightly thicker for a puffy crust.
Transfer to your prepared pan: Carefully lift your rolled dough and place it on your oiled, cornmeal-dusted pan. Gently reshape it if needed.
Cooking Method for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Spread your white sauce: Using the back of a spoon, spread your ricotta-garlic mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. This border will puff up into a beautiful golden crust.
Layer your spinach: Scatter the chopped spinach evenly over the white sauce. Don’t pile it all in one spot spread the love.
Add the mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the spinach, creating an even layer. This cheese will melt and create that gorgeous cheese pull we all live for.
Top with feta: Crumble the feta over everything. The feta won’t melt completely it’ll get slightly soft and golden, adding pockets of tangy, salty flavor.
Season: Give everything a light sprinkle of dried oregano, plus a few grinds of black pepper. The feta is salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
Bake: Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. You’re looking for a golden crust and bubbling cheese. If your oven has a hot spot, rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.
Doneness Check for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Here’s how to know your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight is absolutely perfect:
Visual cues: The cheese should be bubbling with a few golden-brown spots. The crust edges should be deeply golden, almost toasted in places.
The tap test: Carefully lift the edge of your pizza with a spatula and tap the bottom of the crust with your knuckle. It should sound hollow and feel firm, not soft or doughy.
Cheese color: The mozzarella should be fully melted, and the feta should have taken on a slightly deeper color some pieces might even be lightly browned, which adds incredible flavor.
Crust color: The bottom should be golden brown with crispy spots. If you have a pizza peel, slide it under and take a peek.
Resting for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
This is the hardest step because your kitchen smells incredible and you want to dive in immediately but trust me, patience pays off.
Let it rest for 5 minutes: Transfer your pizza to a cutting board and resist the urge to slice immediately. This brief rest allows the cheese to set slightly, which means cleaner slices and less cheese sliding off.
Why this matters: When cheese is piping hot, it’s liquid-y and slippery. Five minutes of cooling firms it up just enough while keeping everything perfectly warm.
Use this time wisely: Pour yourself a glass of wine, set the table, or grab your pizza cutter and prepare for the perfect first slice.
Pro Tips for Perfect Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
After making this pizza dozens of times, I’ve learned some tricks that take it from good to absolutely incredible.
Avoiding Common Pizza Mistakes
Don’t overload your toppings: More isn’t always better with pizza. Too many toppings trap steam, creating a soggy middle. Stick to the amounts in this recipe for the perfect balance.
Watch your cheese distribution: Leave that ½-inch border bare it gives your crust room to puff and brown beautifully. Nothing’s sadder than burned cheese on the edges.
Don’t skip the preheat: A properly preheated oven is non-negotiable. The blast of heat creates immediate crisping and proper rise.
Pat everything dry: Wet ingredients = soggy pizza. Dry your spinach thoroughly and drain watery ricotta if needed.
Tool Recommendations
Pizza stone: If you make pizza regularly, invest in one. Preheat it for 45 minutes, then slide your pizza directly onto it for an unbelievably crispy crust. It mimics a professional pizza oven.
Pizza peel: Makes transferring pizza to a stone or checking the bottom so much easier. Dust it with cornmeal before assembling your pizza on it.
Pizza cutter: A sharp wheel cutter gives you clean slices without dragging toppings around.
Bench scraper: Perfect for handling sticky dough and cleaning up flour from your work surface.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing: This pizza freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating for crispy crust: Never use the microwave it makes the crust rubbery. Instead, heat a skillet over medium heat, add your slice, cover with a lid, and heat for 3-4 minutes. The bottom crisps up while the lid melts the cheese. Alternatively, reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes.
Elevating Your Pizza Game
Finish with fresh elements: After baking, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, fresh cracked black pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat.
Add lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest over the finished pizza adds bright, fresh notes that complement the garlic beautifully.
Try different herbs: Fresh basil leaves torn and scattered after baking add a sweet, aromatic touch. Fresh dill is another Greek-inspired option.
Baste the crust: Before baking, brush the exposed crust edges with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder or sesame seeds.
Flavor Variations for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Once you’ve mastered the base, try these twists.
Mediterranean Twist
Add sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives for more intense Mediterranean flavor. Scatter them over the spinach before adding cheese. The tomatoes add sweet-tart notes while olives bring briny depth.
Artichoke hearts: Quartered marinated artichoke hearts (well-drained) add a tender, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the garlic and spinach.
Protein Power
Grilled chicken: Top with sliced grilled chicken breast seasoned with lemon and oregano for a heartier meal.
Prosciutto: Add torn prosciutto in the last 3 minutes of baking, or scatter it over the pizza after baking so it stays tender.
Italian sausage: Cooked, crumbled Italian sausage adds savory, fennel-forward flavor that complements the white sauce.
Spicy Kick
Red pepper flakes: Mix ½ teaspoon into your ricotta mixture or sprinkle generously over the finished pizza.
Calabrian chili paste: Dot small amounts over the pizza before baking for spicy, fruity heat.
Hot honey drizzle: After baking, drizzle with hot honey the sweet-spicy combination is absolutely addictive.
Keto & Low-Carb Options
Cauliflower crust: Swap traditional dough for cauliflower pizza crust (available frozen or make your own). Bake according to package directions.
Fathead dough: This low-carb dough made from mozzarella and almond flour works wonderfully with this topping combination.
Flavor Variations Comparison Table
| Variation | Key Additions | Flavor Profile | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic (Original) | None | Creamy, garlicky, herbaceous | Garlic lovers, vegetarians |
| Mediterranean | Sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, artichokes | Bold, briny, tangy | Traditional Greek flavors |
| Protein Power | Grilled chicken or prosciutto | Hearty, savory, filling | Meat lovers, main dish |
| Spicy Greek | Red pepper flakes, Calabrian chili | Hot, bold, exciting | Heat seekers |
| Keto-Friendly | Cauliflower or fathead crust | Low-carb, lighter texture | Carb-conscious eaters |
| Herb Garden | Fresh basil, dill, arugula (post-bake) | Fresh, bright, aromatic | Spring/summer dining |
| Truffle Luxury | Truffle oil drizzle, mushrooms | Earthy, sophisticated, rich | Special occasions |
Serving Suggestions for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
This pizza is incredible on its own, but the right sides and pairings take your meal to the next level.
Perfect Side Dishes
Simple arugula salad: Toss fresh arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, shaved Parmesan, and a pinch of salt. The peppery greens and bright citrus cut through the richness of the pizza perfectly.
Greek salad: Stay in theme with a classic Greek salad cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta with a red wine vinaigrette.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers seasoned with oregano and olive oil complement the pizza’s flavors beautifully.
Hummus and pita: Serve store-bought or homemade hummus with warm pita triangles for extra Mediterranean vibes.
Serving Styles
Family dinner: Slice into 8 wedges and serve straight from the cutting board, family-style.
Appetizer: Cut into small squares for a party appetizer. These bite-sized pieces are perfect for entertaining.
Lunch: Serve with a cup of soup tomato soup or a light vegetable broth-based soup works beautifully.
FAQs About Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Let me answer the questions I get asked most often about this recipe.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough actually improves with time. Make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator in an oiled bowl covered with plastic wrap. The slow fermentation develops more complex flavor. You can also freeze shaped dough balls for up to 3 months thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but you need to handle it carefully. Thaw frozen spinach completely, then squeeze out every bit of moisture I’m talking really wring it out over the sink. Use about ½ cup frozen spinach (it’s more concentrated than fresh). Excess water will make your pizza soggy.
How do I prevent my pizza from sticking to the pan?
Use the oil and cornmeal method I described it’s foolproof. Alternatively, use parchment paper under your pizza. You can bake right on the parchment, and it peels away easily afterward.
Can I grill this pizza?
Definitely! Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 450°F). Roll your dough thinner than usual, brush one side with oil, and place it oil-side-down on the grill. Close the lid for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy. Flip it, quickly add your toppings to the cooked side, close the lid, and cook for another 3-5 minutes. The smoky flavor is incredible.
What if I don’t have roasted garlic paste?
You can make a quick version by mincing raw garlic and sautéing it gently in olive oil until soft and golden (about 5 minutes). It won’t be quite as sweet and mellow as roasted garlic, but it works. Or use 2 cloves of fresh minced garlic mixed into the ricotta just know the flavor will be sharper.
Is this recipe safe during pregnancy?
The cheeses used here ricotta, mozzarella, and feta are typically made from pasteurized milk in the US, making them safe during pregnancy. However, always check the label to ensure your feta is pasteurized, as some imported varieties are made with unpasteurized milk. When in doubt, ask your doctor or choose feta specifically labeled as pasteurized.
Can I make this pizza in a toaster oven?
Yes! It works great for smaller pizzas. Preheat your toaster oven to its highest setting (usually 450°F), prepare a pizza sized to fit your toaster oven tray, and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching carefully near the end.
Why is my pizza crust soggy in the middle?
The most common causes are: too many wet toppings, not preheating the oven enough, using wet spinach, or not baking long enough. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, pat all ingredients dry, and don’t be afraid to bake a few minutes longer if the center seems underdone.
Conclusion
There you have it your complete guide to making Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight that’ll transport you straight to a Mediterranean coastline with every bite. This isn’t just pizza; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
I love hearing from you! If you make this recipe, snap a photo and share it with me I feature home cooks on FoodFansy every week. Got questions? Drop them in the comments below, and I’ll answer every single one.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later! I’d love to see your unique twist feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight – Creamy Mediterranean Comfort
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 1 large pizza (4 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, garlicky Mediterranean pizza featuring roasted garlic, spinach, feta, and mozzarella on a crisp crust.
Ingredients
1 pizza dough
3 tbsp roasted garlic paste
½ cup ricotta cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the dough and place on a prepared pan.
3. Mix roasted garlic and ricotta, then spread as the base.
4. Add spinach, mozzarella, and feta.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle oregano.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
7. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Tip: For a crisp crust, preheat your pan or stone before baking.
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a crunchy next-day slice.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner, Pizza
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight, Mediterranean pizza, easy white pizza