Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Introduction
Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight just saying it makes my mouth water. You know that feeling when you order a white pizza and it arrives either swimming in oil or so dry it tastes like cardboard? I’ve been there, and I decided enough was enough.
Hey there! I’m Emeli, and let me tell you about the night that changed my pizza game forever. I was traveling through a small village in Greece, staying with a family who ran a tiny taverna. Their grandmother made this incredible flatbread topped with local greens, roasted garlic, and a creamy white sauce that wasn’t quite Alfredo, but something lighter and more magical. I watched her work, asked a million questions, and scribbled notes on a napkin. That experience became the foundation for this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight a recipe that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors with the comfort of homemade pizza.
This isn’t your typical heavy white pizza. The roasted garlic becomes sweet and mellow, the spinach adds earthy freshness, and the white sauce is creamy without being overwhelming. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special, yet simple enough that you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Throughout this guide, I’ll share my tips for choosing the right ingredients, mastering that white sauce, getting a perfectly crispy crust, and even some creative variations. Let’s make something unforgettable together.
Why This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight Recipe Works
There’s something magical about this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight that keeps my family asking for it week after week. It combines the comfort of pizza with the sophisticated flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, and the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to pull off.
Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
- Uses everyday ingredients you can find at any grocery store – no hunting down specialty items or breaking the bank
- Comes together in under 30 minutes once you’ve prepped your ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home with that golden, caramelized roasted garlic that adds depth without overpowering
- Lighter than traditional white pizzas thanks to a balanced sauce that won’t leave you feeling heavy
- Versatile enough for any occasion – casual family dinners, date nights, or even cut into smaller pieces for appetizers
- Naturally vegetarian while still being satisfying and protein-rich from the cheese base
- The roasted garlic trick eliminates bitterness and creates a sweet, nutty flavor that even garlic-skeptics love
The real secret lies in letting those roasted garlic cloves cool and mellow before adding them to your pizza. Combined with properly sautéed spinach (no soggy pizza here!), this creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and elevated.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
The beauty of this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight lies in selecting quality ingredients that work in harmony. Let me walk you through what makes this pizza truly special.
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
Pizza Dough: Your foundation matters. I prefer using store-bought dough from your grocery store’s bakery section or refrigerated pizza dough – it’s convenient and consistently good. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade dough works beautifully, but don’t let that stop you from making this recipe on a weeknight. Look for dough that’s soft and pliable, not sticky or dry.
Garlic: This is your star ingredient. Choose firm, plump garlic bulbs with tight, papery skin. Avoid any with green shoots sprouting (they’ll be bitter) or soft spots. You’ll need at least one full head of garlic for roasting – don’t skimp here! The roasting process transforms raw garlic’s sharp bite into a sweet, caramelized flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight. Baby spinach is my go-to because the leaves are tender and cook down quickly. One large bunch (about 6-8 cups raw) will reduce to the perfect amount. Frozen spinach can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out every drop of moisture.
Buying Tips
When shopping for your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight, keep these tips in mind:
For the white sauce base: Look for full-fat cream cheese, Greek yogurt (plain, whole milk variety), or a quality ricotta. The fat content is essential for that creamy texture. Low-fat versions will make your sauce thin and watery.
Olive oil: Spring for extra virgin olive oil here. It’s not just for cooking – it adds flavor. You’ll use it for roasting the garlic, sautéing the spinach, and finishing the pizza.
Cheese for topping: While not in the original ingredient list, traditional Greek white pizza often includes feta or mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella (in the water-packed ball) will give you that classic pizza stretch, while feta adds tangy, salty pops of flavor.
Fresh herbs: Dried oregano is listed in the pantry staples, but if you can grab fresh oregano or fresh dill, you’ll elevate this pizza to the next level.
Substitutions
Life happens, and sometimes you need to adapt. Here’s how to modify this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight:
Spinach substitutes: Swiss chard, kale (remove tough stems and chop finely), or even arugula (add it raw after baking for a peppery bite) all work beautifully.
White sauce alternatives: Can’t do dairy? Use a cashew cream (soaked cashews blended with garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast). For a lighter version, try a base of Greek yogurt thinned with a bit of milk.
Dough options: Cauliflower crust for low-carb, naan bread for a quick flatbread version, or even pita bread will work. Gluten-free pizza dough is widely available now too.
Garlic: If you’re short on time and can’t roast garlic, use 4-5 cloves of raw garlic sautéed in olive oil until golden. It won’t have that deep sweetness, but it’ll still be delicious.
Ingredients & Prep for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Getting your ingredients prepped properly is half the battle with this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight. Trust me, a little organization up front makes the actual cooking feel like a breeze.
Prep Essentials for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Roasting the Garlic: This step is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Slice the top quarter off a whole garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Place it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, and wrap it up like a little package. Roast for 35-40 minutes until the cloves are soft, golden, and practically melting. They should squeeze out easily when cool. Let them cool completely – this is when the flavors mellow and sweeten. You can do this step a day ahead and refrigerate the roasted cloves.
Preparing the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your fresh spinach in batches (it seems like a mountain but will wilt down dramatically). Sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until wilted. Transfer to a colander and press with the back of a spoon to remove excess moisture – this is crucial to avoid a soggy Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight. Let it cool, then roughly chop if the leaves are large.
Dough Preparation: Remove your pizza dough from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before you plan to use it. Room temperature dough is easier to stretch and roll without springing back. If using frozen dough, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature.
White Sauce Ingredients for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
This is where your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight gets its creamy, luscious character:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – for richness and to help the sauce spread smoothly
- 6-8 roasted garlic cloves – squeezed from their papery skins and mashed slightly
- 1 cup creamy white base – I use ¾ cup cream cheese (softened) mixed with ¼ cup Greek yogurt for tang, but straight ricotta or a thick yogurt base works too
- ½ teaspoon salt – start with less and adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground makes a difference
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice – for brightness (not in original list but highly recommended)
Assembly tip: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (or your chosen base), roasted garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix with a fork or small whisk until relatively smooth – some texture from the garlic is perfect. Let this mixture rest for 10 minutes before assembling. This resting time allows the garlic flavor to infuse throughout the sauce, creating a more cohesive taste. Cover it and let it sit at room temperature while you prep everything else.
Pantry Staples for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Keep these essentials on hand and you’ll always be ready to whip up this pizza:
- Extra virgin olive oil – your multitasking ingredient for roasting, sautéing, and finishing
- Garlic – beyond the roasted cloves for the sauce, depth of flavor is key
- Dried oregano – that authentic Greek touch; about 1 teaspoon sprinkled over the finished pizza
- Red pepper flakes – optional but adds a nice subtle heat
- All-purpose flour – for dusting your work surface when rolling dough
- Cornmeal – a sprinkle on your baking sheet prevents sticking and adds texture to the bottom crust
Having these staples means your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight is always just a quick grocery run away (for the fresh spinach and dough).
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight

Now comes the fun part bringing your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight to life. I’ll walk you through each step so your pizza turns out perfectly golden and delicious every single time.
Pre-Cooking Prep for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Before your oven even turns on, make sure you’ve completed these essential steps:
Bring your dough to room temperature – this cannot be stressed enough. Cold dough is stubborn and will shrink back when you try to stretch it. Give it that 30-60 minutes on the counter, covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) – a hot oven is critical for that crispy, golden crust. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating. If not, flip a large baking sheet upside down and preheat that instead, or use a regular baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Prepare your work surface – lightly dust your counter or a large cutting board with flour. Have your rolling pin ready, or plan to stretch the dough by hand if you’re feeling adventurous.
Have all your toppings within reach – your white sauce (rested and ready), sautéed and drained spinach, roasted garlic cloves (either kept whole or roughly chopped), any cheese you’re adding, olive oil for brushing, and your herbs.
Cooking Method for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Time to assemble and bake your masterpiece:
Step 1: Shape the dough. Place your room-temperature dough on your floured surface. Gently press it into a circle with your fingertips, starting from the center and working outward. Leave a slightly thicker border around the edge for the crust. Use a rolling pin to roll it out to about 12-14 inches in diameter (or whatever size fits your baking sheet). If it keeps shrinking back, let it rest for 5 minutes and try again. Don’t stress about making it perfectly round – rustic is beautiful!
Step 2: Transfer to your baking surface. If using parchment paper, roll out the dough directly on the paper, then transfer the whole thing to your baking sheet. If using a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet, dust a pizza peel or the back of another baking sheet with cornmeal, place your dough on it, then quickly slide it onto the hot stone.
Step 3: Spread the white sauce. Using the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula, spread your rested white sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. Don’t oversaturate – you want about ¾ cup of sauce total. Less is more here; too much will make your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight soggy.
Step 4: Add the spinach and roasted garlic. Distribute your sautéed, well-drained spinach evenly across the sauced pizza. Scatter the roasted garlic cloves on top – I like to leave some whole and roughly chop others for varied bursts of flavor. If you’re adding cheese (highly recommended), now’s the time. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute, or crumble feta over everything.
Step 5: Drizzle and season. Give the whole pizza a light drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon). Sprinkle with dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes. Slide your pizza into the hot oven. Bake until the crust edges are golden brown and slightly puffed, and any cheese is melted and bubbly. The exact time depends on your oven and how thick your crust is. Check around the 10-minute mark and rotate if needed for even browning.
Doneness Check for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Knowing when your pizza is perfectly done makes all the difference:
Check the crust edges – they should be lightly browned with some golden-dark spots. If they’re still pale, give it another 2-3 minutes.
Examine the center – the crust should be firm, not soggy or doughy. If you gently press the center with a spatula, it should feel set, not soft and collapsing.
Look for bubbling – if you’ve added cheese, it should be melted and just starting to brown in spots.
The bottom crust test – carefully lift an edge with a spatula and peek underneath. You want golden brown, not pale or burnt. If the top is done but the bottom seems underbaked, you can transfer the pizza (still on parchment if using) directly onto the oven rack for the last 2 minutes.
Resting for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
This might be the hardest part – waiting! But it’s essential:
Let your pizza rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This brief rest allows the toppings to set slightly, the cheese to firm up just enough for clean cuts, and prevents all those beautiful toppings from sliding off when you slice.
Transfer your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight to a cutting board. Use a pizza wheel or large chef’s knife to cut into 6-8 slices. For an extra touch, brush the crust edges with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Now, finally, dig in and enjoy your creation!
Pro Tips for Perfect Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
After making this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight dozens of times, I’ve learned some tricks that take it from good to absolutely outstanding.
Avoiding Common Mistakes with Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
The soggy center problem: This is the number one issue with white pizzas. The solution is threefold: (1) Make absolutely sure your spinach is well-drained – squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel if needed, (2) Don’t overload with sauce – a thin, even layer is perfect, and (3) Use a hot oven and consider par-baking your crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings if you’re working with particularly wet ingredients.
Garlic that’s too sharp: If your roasted garlic still tastes harsh, it wasn’t roasted long enough. Those cloves should be completely soft and golden, almost jammy in texture. When in doubt, roast an extra 5-10 minutes. Underroasted garlic will overpower your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight instead of enhancing it.
Dough that won’t stretch: Temperature is usually the culprit. Cold dough is resistant and will snap back. Let it sit at room temperature longer, and handle it gently – aggressive stretching develops too much gluten, making it even tougher to work with.
Burned edges, raw center: Your oven temperature might be too high, or your pizza is too thick in the middle. Try reducing heat to 210°C (410°F) and baking a bit longer, or ensure your dough is evenly thick throughout.
Tool Recommendations for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
The right tools make this recipe even easier:
Pizza stone or steel – If you make pizza regularly, this is a game-changer. It distributes heat evenly and creates that crispy bottom crust pizzerias are known for. Preheat it for at least 30 minutes.
Pizza peel – Makes transferring pizza to and from your stone effortless. Dust it with cornmeal or semolina flour to prevent sticking.
Kitchen scale – For consistent results when you start making your own dough. Measuring flour by weight is far more accurate than cups.
Bench scraper – Perfect for portioning dough and cleaning your floured work surface.
Large skillet or sauté pan – Essential for properly wilting that spinach. A wide surface area helps moisture evaporate quickly.
Food processor or immersion blender – If you want your white sauce super smooth, a quick buzz will eliminate any lumps from the cream cheese.
Storage & Reheating Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Storing leftovers: Let your pizza cool completely, then stack slices with parchment paper between each piece. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The white sauce holds up remarkably well.
Freezing: This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. No need to thaw before reheating.
Reheating for best results: Skip the microwave – it makes the crust rubbery. Instead, use one of these methods:
- Oven method: Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy and warmed through.
- Skillet method: My favorite! Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place your slice in the dry pan, cover with a lid, and heat for 3-4 minutes. The bottom crisps up while the steam from the lid warms the toppings perfectly.
- Air fryer: 180°C (350°F) for 3-4 minutes. Watch carefully as it can dry out quickly.
Make-ahead strategy: Roast your garlic and prep your sauce up to 2 days ahead. Store in the fridge. Sauté your spinach the day before. When you’re ready to make pizza, just bring everything to room temperature and assemble.
Flavor Variations for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
One of the beautiful things about this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
Mediterranean Upgrade
Add sun-dried tomatoes: Chop oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes and scatter them over the white sauce along with your spinach. They add a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture that complements the roasted garlic beautifully.
Kalamata olives and artichokes: Pit and halve some Kalamata olives, quarter some marinated artichoke hearts, and distribute them over your pizza. This transforms your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight into a full Mediterranean feast.
Fresh herbs finish: After baking, top with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of fresh dill, or even some microgreens for color and freshness.
Spicy Twist for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Calabrian chili paste: Dot small spoonfuls of this Italian chili paste across your pizza before baking. It adds fruity heat without overwhelming the delicate garlic flavor.
Red pepper flake oil: Make an infused oil by heating ¼ cup olive oil with 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes until fragrant. Strain and drizzle over your finished pizza.
Spicy honey drizzle: After baking, drizzle your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight with honey that’s been mixed with a pinch of cayenne pepper. The sweet-heat combination is addictive.
Protein-Packed Variations
Grilled chicken: Top your pizza with sliced grilled chicken breast seasoned with oregano and lemon. Add it halfway through baking so it doesn’t dry out.
Crumbled sausage: Italian sausage (mild or spicy) works wonderfully. Brown it first, drain excess fat, and scatter over the white sauce.
Prosciutto finish: After baking, drape thin slices of prosciutto over the hot pizza. The heat will slightly warm it while maintaining that delicate, silky texture.
Dietary Adaptations
Here’s a helpful comparison of how to adapt this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight for various dietary needs:
| Dietary Need | Modification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan | Replace cream cheese with cashew cream; use nutritional yeast for cheese flavor | Soak 1 cup raw cashews for 4 hours, blend with roasted garlic, lemon juice, and salt |
| Dairy-Free | Use coconut cream or almond-based cream cheese; skip traditional cheese toppings | Look for brands like Kite Hill or Miyoko’s for best texture |
| Keto/Low-Carb | Use cauliflower pizza crust or fathead dough; increase cheese toppings | Fathead dough (almond flour + mozzarella) works beautifully with this white sauce |
| Gluten-Free | Use certified gluten-free pizza dough or almond flour crust | Many stores now carry excellent GF options; Trader Joe’s is a great source |
| Paleo | Almond or cassava flour crust; use compliant dairy alternatives | Cashew cream is paleo-approved; skip cheese or use almond-based alternatives |
| Lower-Calorie | Use Greek yogurt as the entire sauce base; skip oil drizzle; light cheese | Reduces calories by about 30% while maintaining protein |
Global Flavor Inspirations
Indian-Spiced: Add cumin and turmeric to your white sauce, use sautéed mustard greens instead of spinach, and finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Mexican Fusion: Mix in some cumin and lime zest to the white sauce, swap spinach for sautéed poblano peppers, and top with cotija cheese and cilantro after baking.
Middle Eastern: Stir za’atar into your white sauce, use a mix of spinach and chard, and finish your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight with a drizzle of tahini and toasted pine nuts.
The possibilities are truly endless – this recipe is your canvas!
Serving Suggestions for Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight deserves to be served in style. Here’s how I like to present it and what to serve alongside.
Perfect Side Dishes
Simple green salad: Keep it light and fresh. Arugula, romaine, or mixed greens with a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the white sauce beautifully. Add shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and a few cherry tomatoes.
Greek salad: Lean into the Mediterranean theme with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta in a red wine vinegar dressing. The bright acidity and crunchy vegetables complement the soft, creamy pizza perfectly.
Roasted vegetables: Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions in olive oil with oregano and roast alongside your pizza. The caramelized edges add another layer of flavor to your meal.
Garlic bread: Yes, more garlic! If you’re feeding garlic lovers, serve some crusty bread brushed with butter, garlic, and parsley. Toast it in the oven while your pizza bakes.
Soup pairing: A light tomato soup or Italian wedding soup makes this a more substantial meal, especially on cooler evenings.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
White wines: This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight pairs beautifully with crisp white wines. Try:
- Pinot Grigio – its clean, light flavor won’t overpower the delicate garlic
- Sauvignon Blanc – the acidity cuts through the creamy white sauce
- Greek Assyrtiko – stay on theme with this mineral, citrusy wine from Santorini
Beer options: If you prefer beer, go for:
- Belgian Witbier – the subtle spice notes complement the oregano
- Light lager – refreshing and won’t compete with your flavors
- Hefeweizen – the slight banana and clove notes work surprisingly well with roasted garlic
Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon, iced herbal tea (try mint or chamomile), or even a light lemonade all work wonderfully.
Presentation Tips
Elevate your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight from homemade to restaurant-worthy:
- Fresh herb garnish: Right before serving, scatter fresh basil leaves or fresh oregano over the top
- Finishing oil: A drizzle of your best extra virgin olive oil or a flavored oil (lemon-infused is lovely)
- Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side – a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over each slice adds brightness
- Red pepper flakes: Set out a small bowl for those who like heat
- Serve on a wooden board: Transfer your sliced pizza to a rustic wooden cutting board for that pizzeria feel
- Parchment paper squares: Cut parchment into squares and place under each slice for easy grab-and-go at casual gatherings
This pizza is perfect for Friday night dinners, casual entertaining, or even cut into smaller pieces as an impressive appetizer at parties.
FAQs About Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight
Let me answer the questions I get asked most often about this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight.
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen spinach works in a pinch. You’ll need about 10 ounces (one package) of frozen chopped spinach. Thaw it completely, then squeeze out as much moisture as humanly possible – this is even more critical with frozen than fresh. I wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out over the sink. The advantage of frozen is it’s already chopped; the downside is it can be a bit more watery, so really focus on that draining step for your Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight.
How do I prevent my pizza from getting soggy?
Soggy pizza is the enemy! Here’s your multi-step defense: (1) Properly drain your spinach – can’t stress this enough, (2) Don’t over-sauce; a thin layer is plenty, (3) Use a hot oven – 220°C (425°F) minimum, (4) Consider par-baking your crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings, (5) Make sure your white sauce isn’t too thin – it should be spreadable but not runny, and (6) Use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet to ensure bottom crust crispness.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Definitely! A simple pizza dough requires just flour, water, yeast, salt, and a bit of olive oil. Mix, knead for 8-10 minutes, let rise for 1-2 hours, and you’re ready to go. Homemade dough does taste incredible, but for weeknight convenience, store-bought is totally acceptable and what I use most of the time for this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight.
Is roasting the garlic really necessary?
For the authentic flavor of this recipe, yes! Roasted garlic is fundamentally different from raw or sautéed garlic. It becomes sweet, mellow, and almost buttery. Raw garlic would be too sharp and could overpower the delicate white sauce. That said, if you’re truly pressed for time, you can sauté thinly sliced garlic in olive oil until golden brown – it won’t be the same, but it’ll still be tasty.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
The skillet method is my go-to for leftover Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, place your slice in the dry pan, cover with a lid, and heat for 3-4 minutes. The bottom crisps up perfectly while the steam warms the toppings. Avoid the microwave – it makes the crust rubbery and the white sauce can separate.
Can I make this pizza ahead for a party?
You can prep most components ahead: roast the garlic (up to 3 days ahead), make the white sauce (2 days ahead), and sauté the spinach (1 day ahead). Store everything separately in the fridge. On party day, bring components to room temperature, assemble, and bake. You could even assemble the pizzas (uncooked) on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2-3 hours before baking. Bake just before serving for the best results.
Is this recipe safe during pregnancy?
This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight is generally safe for pregnant women with one consideration: make sure any cheese you use is made from pasteurized milk. Most commercial cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella sold in the US are pasteurized, but always check the label. Avoid soft, unpasteurized cheeses like some artisanal feta. The thoroughly cooked spinach and roasted garlic are both perfectly safe. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific dietary concerns during pregnancy.
Can I grill this pizza instead of baking it?
Yes! Grilled pizza is fantastic, especially in summer. Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 230°C/450°F). Roll out your dough, brush one side with olive oil, and place oil-side down directly on the grill grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is marked and firm. Flip the crust, quickly add your white sauce and toppings to the grilled side, close the lid, and grill another 4-5 minutes until everything is warmed through and the bottom is crispy.
What if I don’t have a pizza stone?
No problem! Most of the time, I use a regular baking sheet for this Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight. Just preheat your oven with the baking sheet inside (flip it upside down for easier sliding), or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You’ll still get excellent results. The key is getting your oven nice and hot.
Conclusion
There you have it my Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight, born from a magical evening in a Greek taverna and refined through countless Friday night dinners in my own kitchen.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me that the best food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about taking a few quality ingredients sweet roasted garlic, fresh spinach, a creamy white sauce and letting them shine. Every time I make this pizza, I’m transported back to that small village, watching that grandmother work her magic with the confidence that only comes from years of feeding people you love.
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!
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Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight – Creamy & Easy
- Total Time: 70
- Yield: 8 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Roasted Garlic Spinach White Pizza Delight combines sweet, caramelized roasted garlic with fresh sautéed spinach on a creamy white sauce base. It’s lighter than traditional white pizza, comes together in under 30 minutes, and delivers restaurant-quality Mediterranean flavors at home. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining!
Ingredients
1 head of garlic (for roasting)
3–4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
6–8 cups fresh baby spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
¾ cup cream cheese, softened (or ricotta)
¼ cup Greek yogurt (plain, whole milk)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, room temperature)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup fresh mozzarella, torn (optional)
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Fresh basil or oregano (optional, for garnish)
All-purpose flour (for dusting)
Cornmeal (for baking sheet, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Slice the top quarter off the garlic bulb to expose cloves. Place on foil, drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, wrap tightly, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool completely, then squeeze cloves from skins.
2. While garlic roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add spinach in batches and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Transfer to a colander and press firmly to remove excess moisture. Let cool, then roughly chop if needed.
3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, roasted garlic cloves (mashed slightly), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until relatively smooth. Let rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.
4. Increase oven temperature to 220°C (425°F). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to preheat.
5. Bring pizza dough to room temperature (30-60 minutes if refrigerated). Lightly dust your work surface with flour.
6. Roll or stretch dough into a 12-14 inch circle, leaving edges slightly thicker for the crust. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or cornmeal-dusted pizza peel.
7. Spread the white sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around edges. Use about ¾ cup sauce total.
8. Distribute the sautéed, well-drained spinach evenly over the sauce. Scatter roasted garlic cloves on top (whole or chopped).
9. If using, add torn mozzarella pieces and crumbled feta. Drizzle with remaining olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust edges are golden brown and lightly puffed, and the center is firm (not soggy). Check at 10 minutes and rotate if needed for even browning.
11. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This allows toppings to set.
12. Transfer to a cutting board, slice into 6-8 pieces, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Make-Ahead: Roast garlic up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. Prepare white sauce and sauté spinach 1-2 days ahead. Store separately and bring to room temperature before assembling.
Preventing Soggy Pizza: Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained (squeeze in a clean kitchen towel if needed). Don’t over-sauce the pizza. Use a hot oven and consider par-baking the crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.
Dough Tips: Room temperature dough is crucial for easy stretching. If it keeps shrinking back, let it rest 5 minutes before continuing.
Substitutions: Use Swiss chard or kale instead of spinach. For dairy-free, use cashew cream (1 cup soaked cashews blended with garlic, lemon juice, and salt). Try cauliflower crust for low-carb or naan bread for a quick flatbread version.
Reheating: Use the skillet method for best results – heat a dry non-stick pan over medium heat, add pizza slice, cover with lid, and heat 3-4 minutes until bottom is crispy.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap then foil for up to 2 months.
Cheese Options: Fresh mozzarella gives the classic pizza stretch while feta adds tangy, salty flavor. Both are optional but highly recommended.
Garlic Intensity: If you prefer milder garlic flavor, use 4-5 roasted cloves. For garlic lovers, use the entire roasted head.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Main Course, Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
Keywords: Greek pizza, white pizza, roasted garlic pizza, spinach pizza, vegetarian pizza, Mediterranean pizza, homemade pizza, weeknight dinner
