Beet Pizza with Pineapple, Spinach, and Spicy Ayurvedic Marinara Sauce (XXL Pan Style)
HISTORY & LORE
Originating from the streets of Naples, Italy, the pizza has traveled the world, embracing diverse influences and toppings. This beet pizza with pineapple and spinach is a modern, global twist on the beloved classic. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs beautifully with the tropical zing of pineapple, while fresh spinach adds a burst of green vitality. The Ayurvedic marinara sauce is a true highlight, infused with healing spices like turmeric, ginger, and cumin, offering not only rich flavor but also nourishing properties. This XXL pan-style pizza delivers an indulgent experience while nurturing both body and soul, combining comfort and wellness in each bite.
DETAILS OF THE RECIPE
Ingredients (Serves 8-10)
For the Spicy Ayurvedic Marinara Sauce:
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin powder (supports digestion)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
• 1 tsp ginger powder (supports metabolism)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds tang)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (or coconut sugar, for natural sweetness)
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt to taste
For the Pizza:
• 1 XXL pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1–2 medium-sized beets, peeled, thinly sliced, and roasted
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a tangy flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Spicy Ayurvedic Marinara Sauce:
1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, cumin, turmeric, chili flakes, ginger powder, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and black pepper. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
4. Add salt to taste and fresh basil, if desired. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Pizza:
1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C), and if using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Roll out the XXL pizza dough on a large pizza pan or baking sheet, shaping it evenly into a large circle. Drizzle with olive oil to promote a crispy crust.
3. Spread a generous layer of the spicy Ayurvedic marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
4. Layer the roasted beet slices evenly across the sauce, followed by the chopped spinach and pineapple chunks.
5. Top the pizza with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by crumbled feta cheese, if using. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for a golden finish.
Bake the Pizza:
1. Place the pizza in the oven (on the preheated stone or directly on the oven rack) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
2. Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve:
1. Slice the pizza into large pieces and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
2. Serve immediately, while the pizza is still hot and the cheese is oozing.
BUSINESS VALUE
• Cost to Make (per pizza): ~$10.50
• Sales Price (per pizza in a café or restaurant): $28–$35
• Profit Margin: ~72%
• Scalability: Perfect for pizzerias, plant-based restaurants, or Ayurvedic wellness cafés looking to offer a unique, health-conscious option with a rich flavor profile.
BLUEPRINT RATING
• Flavor Complexity: 10/10 (Sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy with layers of flavor)
• Healing Properties: 10/10 (Anti-inflammatory turmeric, metabolism-boosting ginger, digestive cumin, and detoxifying ingredients)
• Ease of Preparation: 10/10 (Straightforward steps with minimal effort, especially with a pre-made pizza dough)
• Texture & Balance: 10/10 (Crispy crust, melty cheese, crunchy roasted beets, juicy pineapple, and fresh spinach)
• Overall Score: 100/100
VISUAL APPEAL
• Plating: Slice the pizza into generous portions and place them on a rustic wooden pizza board. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, or lightly drizzle with olive oil for added sheen.
• Photography Tips: Capture the rich, colorful contrast between the golden cheese, vibrant beets, and lush spinach. The deep red marinara sauce, with its Ayurvedic spices, provides a striking backdrop to the toppings. A close-up shot of a slice being pulled will showcase the gooey, melting cheese and the colorful array of vegetables.
• Ideal Lighting: Soft, warm natural light to highlight the rich colors of the pizza and emphasize the freshness of the toppings. A hint of light from the side will create a beautiful shine on the melted cheese.
PAIRINGS & SERVING SUGGESTIONS
• Drink Pairing: A chilled herbal iced tea or a light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will complement the rich, savory flavors.
• Side Dish Pairing: A side of mixed greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette or a tangy cucumber salad will balance the richness of the pizza.
PRO TIPS & VARIATIONS
• For a Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella and skip the feta, or substitute it with a vegan feta option.
• For Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough or try a cauliflower crust for a healthier, low-carb version.
• For Extra Spice: Add thin slices of fresh chili or jalapeño peppers to the pizza before baking for a fiery kick.
• For More Depth of Flavor: Roasted garlic or caramelized onions can be added for an additional layer of sweetness and complexity.
This beet pizza, with its vibrant array of toppings and Ayurvedic marinara sauce, is a stunning example of how indulgence and wellness can beautifully coexist. The earthy beets, tangy pineapple, and fresh spinach create a dynamic combination that works perfectly with the bold, spicy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both health-conscious eaters and those seeking a unique twist on a classic favorite. Whether for a family dinner, a wellness-focused café, or a special gathering, this pizza is sure to impress with every bite.
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