Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms Recipe
If you’re craving a doughy, golden, and utterly craveable pizza packed with bold, briny flavor, this Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms is about to become your go-to recipe! Imagine a crisp-edged, chewy crust layered with silky vegan mozzarella, savory mushrooms, and tangy green olives—all bubbling together in a single, effortless skillet bake that’s just as perfect for a cozy night in as it is for impressing company. There’s something deeply satisfying about pulling a perfectly caramelized slice from the pan, the cheese stretching and the aroma of oregano and fresh basil filling your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself (no shame in leftovers!), this recipe delivers all the pizza night magic with none of the dairy or fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this vegan pan pizza lies in its simple, reliable ingredients. Each one plays a starring role—from the springy dough to those vibrant green olives—creating a symphony of texture, flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- All-purpose flour: The base of your dough, giving it that essential chew and softness every great pan pizza needs.
- Olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and helps achieve those signature crispy, golden edges.
- Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together—make sure it’s just warm, not hot!
- Sugar: Feeds the yeast, helping your crust rise beautifully.
- Salt: Balances and boosts all the flavors in both the crust and toppings.
- Instant yeast: Makes the dough rise quickly, ensuring fluffiness and lift.
- Pizza sauce: Brings a bright, tangy layer that ties the toppings together—use your favorite jarred or homemade version.
- Vegan shredded mozzarella: Delivers ooey-gooey goodness and that iconic cheesy stretch, dairy-free!
- Green olives: Packed with briny tang, they pop against the creamy cheese and earthy mushrooms.
- Mushrooms: Sliced and piled on for a meaty texture and savory depth.
- Dried oregano: The aromatic finishing touch, instantly evoking classic pizzeria vibes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat if you like your pizza with a kick.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A fragrant, colorful way to bring everything together just before serving.
How to Make Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms
Step 1: Kickstart the Dough
Begin your pizza adventure by mixing warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Within just a few minutes, your mixture should get creamy and bubbly—proof that your yeast is alive and raring to go. This step is more than science; it sets the stage for a light, airy dough that bakes up beautifully.
Step 2: Mix, Knead, and Rise
Add your flour, salt, and a splash of olive oil into the yeast mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms. Knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes on a floured surface (or right in the bowl if you prefer low-mess). As you work the dough, it’ll transform into a supple, elastic ball. Place it back in the bowl, cover, and let rise somewhere warm for about an hour—this is when the magic happens, and your Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms starts to come to life.
Step 3: Prep the Pan and Shape the Crust
Generously oil a 10 to 12-inch cast-iron skillet or round baking pan—don’t skimp, because this is what delivers those glorious crispy edges! Press your risen dough into the pan, gently stretching it right to the edges. Cover and rest for another 20 to 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to a piping hot 475°F (245°C). The dough will puff just a bit more, promising an irresistibly light texture.
Step 4: Sauce and Top It
Now comes the fun part: assembling your Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms! Slather the dough with rich pizza sauce, making sure to nudge it almost to the edge. Scatter vegan mozzarella in a thick, even layer, then tumble over the sliced mushrooms and briny green olives. A sprinkle of dried oregano and a dash of red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling bold) are the finishing touches before the bake.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your loaded pan pizza into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Watch for the crust to turn gloriously golden and crisp, the cheese to bubble enticingly, and the toppings to caramelize at the edges. The aroma alone guarantees you’ll be eager to dig in! Once baked, let the pizza cool in the pan for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil for a splash of color and a pop of fragrance. Slice and serve while the cheese is still perfectly melty.
How to Serve Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms
Garnishes
For the ultimate finishing touch, shower your pizza with ribbons of fresh basil, a quick grind of black pepper, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra savory oomph. A light drizzle of olive oil just before serving also adds richness and shine. Garnishing is your chance to make each slice look as enticing as it tastes!
Side Dishes
This Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms pairs perfectly with simple, refreshing sides. Think a peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted garlic broccoli, or a classic antipasto platter. For something heartier, a cup of vegan minestrone or some crispy potato wedges will turn pizza night into a true feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your pizza night into a memorable event! Try serving the pizza cut into bite-sized squares as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or go rustic and let everyone slice their own wedges straight from the skillet. Set up a topping bar with extra olives, peppers, and sauces so guests can build their own slices—perfect for parties or family get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms is a beautiful thing: simply cover slices and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify overnight, making for a crave-worthy cold snack or reheated lunch.
Freezing
If you want to keep pizza on hand in a pinch, cool your slices completely, then wrap them tightly in foil or parchment and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—ideal for those spontaneous pizza cravings.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat slices in a hot skillet (lightly oiled for crispiness) or in the oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes. For a quick option, the microwave works, but the crust will be softer rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour for this Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms?
Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and satisfyingly doughy.
What other vegetables can I use as toppings?
Get creative! Red onions, bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes all pair beautifully on a Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms. Use what you love or have on hand for endless variations.
Do I really need a cast-iron skillet?
While a cast-iron pan creates unbeatable crispness, you can use any heavy, oven-safe round baking pan. Even a cake pan will give you tasty results, though the edges might be a bit softer.
Can I prep the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature before pressing into your pan for the best texture and flavor.
How can I make this pizza extra crispy?
Aside from a generously oiled pan, brush the edges of the dough with olive oil right before baking, and bake on the lowest oven rack to encourage a crisp, golden bottom for your Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comfort and joy of gathering around a homemade Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms. The combo of golden crust, bubbling vegan cheese, and bold, briny toppings makes every bite a delight. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients deliver restaurant-worthy results right in your own kitchen!
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Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in a delicious Vegan Pan Pizza with Green Olives and Mushrooms. This dairy-free pizza is topped with vegan mozzarella, savory olives, and earthy mushrooms, creating a flavor-packed meal for pizza lovers.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for the pan)
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup vegan shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup sliced green olives
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat and Assemble: Oil a skillet, press dough into it. Let rest. Preheat oven. Spread sauce on dough, add mozzarella, olives, mushrooms, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with basil, slice, and serve.
Notes
- You can prep the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight.
- Swap mushrooms for bell peppers or add red onions for variety.
- For extra crispiness, brush the crust edges with olive oil before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
