Mediterranean Pizza

If you’re used to pizza being a greasy, cheesy splurge, get ready for a serious glow-up. Mediterranean pizza takes everything we love about pizza night—crispy crust, melty cheese, savory toppings—and swaps in bold, fresh, and veggie-packed flavors inspired by the Mediterranean diet. It’s not only lighter and more nutritious, but it’s also bursting with so much flavor you won’t miss the extra cheese or heavy meat.

Right out of the gate, this pizza leans into heart-healthy ingredients. Think olive oil instead of butter, vibrant vegetables over pepperoni, and salty feta in place of piles of mozzarella. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick meals, a student trying to eat well, or just someone tired of boring weeknight dinners, this Mediterranean pizza recipe is going to hit the spot. Trust me, this isn’t a sad salad-on-flatbread situation. This is the real deal: crispy crust, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and herby goodness in every bite.

What Makes a Mediterranean Pizza Unique?

Unlike classic American or New York-style pizza that piles on heavy sauces and meats, Mediterranean pizza focuses on balance and brightness. It takes cues from the Mediterranean diet—a way of eating known for being heart-healthy and packed with good-for-you fats, fresh produce, and simple, whole ingredients.

A traditional Mediterranean pizza recipe usually features:

  • A thin, crispy or rustic pizza dough
  • Olive oil as the base instead of tomato sauce (or sometimes hummus!)
  • A combo of cheeses like feta and mozzarella
  • Toppings like spinach, olives, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and artichoke hearts
  • Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, and fresh basil

And here’s the thing: this pizza isn’t just healthy, it’s also deeply satisfying. Every bite delivers crunch, saltiness, freshness, and just enough creaminess from the cheese.

Mediterranean Pizza Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Mediterranean pizza at home. You can find most of these in a well-stocked grocery store or pantry.

For the Dough:

  • Rustic pizza dough or store-bought thin crust dough

For the Base:

Cheese Layer:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Veggies and Toppings:

  • 1 large tomato, sliced and dried on paper towels
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • ½ cup kalamata olives, halved
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts (optional)

Herbs and Finishing Touches:

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

If you’re a bread-lover, try serving your pizza alongside this homemade Italian bread for a full Mediterranean meal.

Add-Ons and Custom Topping Ideas

One of the best things about Mediterranean pizza is how customizable it is. You can load it up with even more vegetables or tailor it to fit a plant-based pizza dinner.

Try these toppings too:

  • Arugula (add it after baking)
  • Roasted garlic cloves
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini slices
  • Mushrooms
  • Broccoli florets

Looking for a side dish? Pair your Mediterranean pizza with this refreshing cucumber tomato salad.

How to Make Mediterranean Pizza (Step-by-Step)

This Mediterranean pizza recipe is simple and forgiving. You don’t need a fancy pizza oven or professional tools. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat your oven
Crank your oven to 525℉ (or the highest it safely goes). Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up while you prep. This will give you that crispy, bakery-style crust.

Step 2: Shape the dough
Roll or stretch your dough into a 12 to 14-inch circle. Transfer it to parchment paper. Press slightly around the edges to create a raised crust.

Step 3: Add your base and cheese
Brush olive oil across the surface of the dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly, followed by crumbled feta.

Step 4: Pile on the veggies
Top with dried tomato slices, spinach, kalamata olives, and red onions. Add any other toppings you’re using. Sprinkle dried herbs and red pepper flakes on top. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over everything.

Step 5: Bake it
Slide the pizza (on parchment) onto the hot stone or sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned and the crust is golden.

Let it cool slightly before slicing into 8 pieces.

For more Mediterranean meal inspiration, these garlic butter chicken bites also make a great protein-rich side.

How to Store Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers (doubtful, but okay), here’s how to store them without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Refrigerator:
Wrap slices tightly or store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

Freezer:
Wrap individual slices in foil and freeze for up to 6 months.

To Reheat:
Bake in a 400℉ oven or use an air fryer until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you like your crust crunchy.

This makes Mediterranean pizza perfect for meal prep or make-ahead lunches.

Expert Mediterranean Pizza Tips

Want to go from good to great? Try these smart tips:

  • Dry your tomatoes before baking. Wet tomatoes = soggy crust.
  • Brush olive oil on the crust edge for extra flavor and golden crunch.
  • Don’t overdo the cheese. Mediterranean pizza shines when the veggies and herbs take the lead.
  • Add arugula or basil AFTER baking to keep them fresh and punchy.
  • Cook it hot and fast. High-heat pizza recipes lock in the freshness and give a bakery-style finish.
  • Use a pizza stone if you have one. It makes a huge difference in crispiness.

Want to mix up the base? A no-sauce Mediterranean pizza with just olive oil or hummus is equally delicious.

FAQs

Is Mediterranean pizza healthy?

Yes! It uses heart-healthy olive oil, fresh veggies, and lighter cheese portions. It’s a great option for anyone following a Mediterranean diet or looking for a low calorie pizza dinner.

Is it vegetarian?

Most Mediterranean pizza recipes are naturally vegetarian. You can also make it vegan with plant-based cheese and crust.

Can I skip the sauce?

Absolutely. This no-sauce Mediterranean pizza works great with just olive oil or a layer of hummus.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Use an oven or air fryer for best results. Skip the microwave unless you’re into chewy crusts.

Can I add meat?

Sure! Lean grilled chicken or turkey sausage works well if you want some extra protein.

Need a sweet and tangy side? Try this strawberry spinach salad.

Pizza Night Pairings for the Win

Make your Mediterranean pizza night a full-blown event with these tasty pairings:

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick Mediterranean meal for one, this Mediterranean pizza recipe brings the flavor and feels without the fuss. Now that’s a slice of something special.

Print
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Mediterranean pizza topped with feta, olives, red onions, and spinach on parchment paper

Mediterranean Pizza


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  • Author: Jake
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This healthier, flavor-packed Mediterranean pizza is loaded with fresh veggies, feta, and herbs on a crispy crust—perfect for a delicious, lighter pizza night.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 thin crust or rustic dough (1214 inches)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta
  • 1 tomato, sliced and dried
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1/2 red onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
  • 1/4 cup artichokes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 525℉ with stone or baking sheet inside.
  2. Roll out dough and transfer to parchment.
  3. Brush with olive oil, add cheeses and toppings.
  4. Bake 10–12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  5. Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy.

Notes

Dry tomato slices before baking to avoid soggy crust. Add fresh basil or arugula after baking for the best flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
Pinterest collage of Mediterranean pizza showing baked and fresh pre-baked versions with feta, spinach, and olives
Pinterest collage of Mediterranean pizza with feta, spinach, olives, and red onions

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about making your own pizza that feels extra satisfying. And when it’s packed with fresh veggies, salty cheese, good olive oil, and all those sun-soaked flavors, it becomes more than just dinner—it becomes a little moment of joy. Whether you’re keeping it vegetarian, loading it up with extra toppings, or sneaking a slice for breakfast the next day (no judgment), this recipe is flexible, simple, and downright crave-worthy.

So next time you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, and comforting—but still light and wholesome—this is the one to reach for. Grab your dough, preheat that oven, and let your kitchen smell like the Mediterranean coast for a night.

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