Vegan Pizza: 5 Delicious Sauce Recipes

Pizza is one of the most versatile and loved foods worldwide, capable of adapting to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions. For those following a vegan lifestyle, finding a satisfying pizza option doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or indulgence. The key to crafting the perfect vegan pizza lies in the sauce. A delicious sauce can elevate even the simplest toppings into a flavorful masterpiece.

Understanding Vegan Pizza

What is Vegan Pizza?

Vegan pizza is a plant-based version of traditional pizza, which means it does not contain any animal products, including cheese, meat, or dairy. Instead, vegan pizzas utilize a variety of fresh vegetables, plant-based proteins, and exciting sauces to create mouthwatering flavor combinations.

Benefits of Vegan Pizza

1. Healthier Option: Vegan pizzas can be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol compared to their non-vegan counterparts, making them heart-healthy choices.

2. Rich in Nutrients: By focusing on plant-based ingredients, vegan pizzas can be rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, thanks to the abundance of vegetables used.

3. Flexibility: The range of sauces and toppings available means that vegan pizza is endlessly customizable and can cater to diverse taste preferences.

4. Ethical Considerations: For those who choose a vegan lifestyle based on compassion for animals and environmental concerns, vegan pizza aligns with their values.

5. Flavorful Innovation: Vegan recipes often encourage adventurous flavor combinations that can surprise and delight even non-vegan eaters.

Crafting the Perfect Pizza Crust

Before we dive into the delicious sauces, it’s essential to know the foundation of your vegan pizza—the crust. A great crust can set the stage for your sauce and toppings.

Basic Vegan Pizza Crust Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
7. Pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding your sauce and toppings.

Now that we have the crust sorted, let’s explore five delicious vegan pizza sauce recipes!

1. Classic Tomato Pizza Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you'd like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using it on your pizza.

Why it Works

A classic tomato sauce is the foundation of many traditional pizzas. It provides a fresh, tangy base that complements a wide array of toppings, from fresh vegetables to vegan cheeses.

2. Creamy Vegan Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours and drained)
• 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more almond milk until reaching the desired consistency.
4. Use as a sauce on your pizza for a rich and indulgent experience.

Why it Works

Alfredo sauce brings a luxurious creaminess to vegan pizza, making it feel hearty and indulgent. The cashew base adds protein and richness, while nutritional yeast imparts a cheesy flavor.

3. BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
2. Adjust sweetness and tanginess to your liking by adding more maple syrup or vinegar.
3. Spread the BBQ sauce over the pizza crust before adding toppings.

Why it Works

BBQ sauce adds a smoky sweetness to the pizza that pairs well with grilled vegetables and vegan sausage. It’s a great alternative for those who enjoy bold flavors and a touch of sweetness in their dishes.

4. Pesto Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse while slowly drizzling in olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth, paste-like consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lemon juice if desired for brightness.
4. Spread over your pizza crust before adding toppings.

Why it Works

Pesto sauce offers a fresh and vibrant flavor, making it an excellent compliment to roasted vegetables and vegan cheese. Its herbaceous quality provides a punch of flavor in each bite.

5. Spicy Harissa Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons harissa paste (available at most grocery stores)
• 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the harissa paste, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less harissa to your taste.
3. Spread the sauce over your pizza crust for a fiery kick.

Why it Works

Harissa sauce adds an intriguing depth of flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It pairs wonderfully with earthy vegetables and can transform a simple pizza into an exotic dish.

Crafting the Perfect Vegan Pizza

Choosing Your Toppings

The beauty of vegan pizza is the plethora of topping options available. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Veggies: Load up on fresh veggies such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and artichokes.
2. Fruits: Don’t hesitate to get creative and add fruits like pineapple, figs, or even apple slices for a sweet touch.
3. Vegan Cheese: Try store-bought vegan cheese or make your own from cashews or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. Proteins: Add plant-based protein sources like chickpeas, tempeh, or vegan sausage for a heartier pizza.

Baking Tips

1. Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to a high temperature (475°F or higher) for a crispy crust.

2. Use a Pizza Stone: If available, a pizza stone helps achieve a perfect crust by providing even heating.

3. Don’t Overload: While it can be tempting to pile on toppings, be mindful not to overload the pizza, as this can make it soggy.

4. Bake Time: Bake your pizza for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

5. Allow to Cool: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow the toppings to set.

Pairing Vegan Pizza with Sides

Vegan pizza can be accompanied by a variety of healthy sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with:

1. Salads: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a light counterpart to the hearty pizza.

2. Soups: Pairing with a vegetable or tomato soup adds comfort and warmth.

3. Dips: Offer hummus or guacamole for dipping crusts or adding additional flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover vegan pizza (which may be rare), here are some tips for storage and reheating:

1. Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Reheating: For the best results, reheat pizza in the oven to help restore its crispiness. Place it on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Vegan pizza doesn’t have to be bland or boring. With these five delicious sauce recipes at your disposal, you can create a variety of flavorful and satisfying pizzas that cater to your dietary needs. From classic tomato sauce to creamy Alfredo and spicy harissa, the possibilities are endless.

Explore different toppings, experiment with crusts, and don’t hesitate to combine sauces to find your perfect vegan pizza creation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a craving, your homemade vegan pizza is sure to impress and delight.

As you embark on this culinary adventure, enjoy the process of crafting a truly delicious vegan pizza that celebrates the abundance of plant-based ingredients. Bon appétit!