Sometimes, all you need is a quick culinary escape that doesn’t require a passport or a lot of prep time. Enter lavash flatbread pizzas—a canvas for your wildest cravings and a testament to how a simple flatbread can transform into a masterpiece. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a frantic weeknight, these recipes promise to satisfy that pizza itch without too much fuss.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Lightly coat one side of the lavash bread with olive oil using a brush, ensuring the entire surface is covered. Place the bread on the baking sheet, oil side up, and bake for 4-7 minutes until it turns golden and firm.
- Once the lavash is crispy, remove it from the oven and spread a thin layer of your chosen sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly, followed by your preferred toppings such as vegetables, cooked chicken, and herbs.
- Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 3-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through. Serve the lavash pizza immediately for the best experience.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of lavash bread, approximately 9″ x 12″
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 4 teaspoons of sauce (options: tomato, pesto, barbecue, or peanut)
- ? cup shredded cheese (options: mozzarella, fresh buffalo mozzarella, or vegan cheese)
- ¼ to ½ cup cooked vegetables, shredded chicken, or both
- 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs, julienned (options: basil or cilantro)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 492kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 882mg | Potassium: 212mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 2906IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 391mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Where can I purchase lavash bread?
- Lavash bread is typically available at most grocery stores, often found near the bread aisle or in sections dedicated to Middle Eastern cuisine. A popular option is the whole wheat lavash from Trader Joe’s.
- How can I keep my lavash pizza from becoming soggy?
- To avoid a soggy lavash pizza, pre-bake the bread for a few minutes to make it crisp before adding any toppings. Additionally, use a minimal amount of sauce to help maintain the crispness.
- Is it possible to prepare lavash pizzas in advance?
- It is not recommended to bake the entire pizza ahead of time. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance by chopping and storing them in small containers. When ready to serve, simply pre-bake the lavash, add the toppings, and bake again.
- Can I freeze lavash pizzas for later use?
- Freezing lavash pizzas is not advised, as it may affect the texture and quality of the crust. It’s best to enjoy these pizzas fresh.
- What are some topping suggestions for lavash pizzas?
- Lavash pizzas are highly customizable. Some popular topping ideas include traditional pizza sauce with mozzarella and basil, a Mediterranean mix with olives and red onions, or a gourmet option with heirloom tomato sauce and buffalo mozzarella. You can also experiment with different sauces like pesto or barbecue and a variety of vegetables and proteins.
Tips
- Pre-bake the Lavash: Crisp up the lavash bread for a few minutes in the oven before adding any toppings. This step ensures the base stays firm and prevents it from becoming soggy once the toppings are added.
- Go Easy on the Sauce: To maintain a crispy texture, use a lighter hand with the sauce compared to traditional pizzas. This helps avoid saturating the thin crust, keeping the pizza crispier.
- Limit the Toppings: Since lavash is a thin base, avoid overloading it with too many toppings. A balanced amount will prevent the pizza from becoming too heavy and ensure even cooking.
- Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro after cooking can elevate the flavor of your lavash pizza, giving it a fresh and aromatic finish.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – Used for placing the lavash bread in the oven.
- Pastry/Basting Brush – For brushing olive oil onto the lavash bread.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil – Useful for lining the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
