Eggplant Pizza

This Eggplant Pizza is a delicious gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza, using thick slices of roasted eggplant as the base instead of dough. Topped with savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, these mini pizzas are easy to make, naturally low-carb, and perfect as a healthy appetizer, lunch, or light dinner. They’re also versatile enough to enjoy between slices of crusty whole grain bread as a gourmet sandwich.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced 1 inch thick

  • 24 oz jar of tomato sauce

  • 20 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella)

  • 3–4 oz fresh cherry tomatoes, sliced

  • 1 cup fresh spinach

  • ½ tsp Himalayan salt

  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Arrange eggplant slices on two baking trays. Sprinkle with Himalayan salt.

  3. Roast eggplant for 15–20 minutes until tender.

  4. Remove from oven and switch the oven to broil.

  5. Spread 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce on each roasted eggplant slice.

  6. Top each with a slice of provolone, a few spinach leaves, and sliced cherry tomatoes.

  7. Broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

  8. Serve hot as is, or sandwich them between slices of whole grain bread for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Nutrients (approx. per serving, based on 2 eggplant pizzas)

  • Calories: ~180

  • Fat: ~10g

  • Saturated Fat: ~5g

  • Carbohydrates: ~12g

  • Fiber: ~4g

  • Protein: ~8g

  • Sodium: ~300mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This eggplant pizza recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s simple enough for a quick lunch yet elegant enough to serve at gatherings. Here’s why it’ll become a regular in your rotation:

  • Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions.

  • Quick to prepare, with minimal ingredients and just a few easy steps.

  • Customizable toppings allow for endless creativity—add olives, mushrooms, basil, or even protein.

  • Rich in fiber and antioxidants, thanks to eggplant, spinach, and tomato.

  • Kid-friendly and meal-prep approved, perfect for reheating leftovers.

Plus, it doubles as a versatile base for a gourmet vegetarian sandwich when layered between slices of whole grain bread or tucked into pita.

Flavor and Texture Profile

The roasted eggplant slices create a slightly crisp yet tender base that stands up well to toppings. Once roasted, eggplant develops a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a creamy interior that complements the acidity of tomato sauce and the richness of melted cheese.

The provolone adds a smooth, savory flavor and perfect meltability, while the cherry tomatoes burst with freshness, and the spinach brings a light, earthy contrast. A sprinkle of Himalayan salt enhances all the flavors, and a dash of red pepper flakes can introduce just the right amount of heat.

The result is a pizza experience that’s chewy, cheesy, and bright, all while being light on the stomach.

Tips for Perfect Eggplant Pizzas

To get the best texture and taste from your eggplant pizzas, consider the following tips:

  • Slice evenly: Keep eggplant slices about 1 inch thick for the ideal balance between sturdiness and tenderness.

  • Salt to draw moisture: Sprinkling with Himalayan salt before roasting helps draw out moisture and prevents sogginess.

  • Use parchment or a wire rack: This ensures air circulation and avoids sticking, promoting even roasting.

  • Don’t overbroil: Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning—cheese melts fast!

  • Press moisture if needed: After roasting, you can gently press slices with a paper towel to soak up excess moisture if your eggplant holds a lot of water.

These steps help keep the base firm and the toppings crisp and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant pizzas are endlessly versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

  • Serve hot as individual pizzas for a light main course or appetizer.

  • Stack two together with a dollop of pesto or ricotta in between for a heartier meal.

  • Sandwich them between bread or pita for a gourmet vegetarian sandwich.

  • Add to a grain bowl with quinoa or farro for a nourishing lunch.

  • Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or chili oil for extra flavor.

Pair them with a fresh arugula salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or a bowl of herb-infused lentils for a well-rounded dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Eggplant pizza stores well, making it a great make-ahead or meal-prep option:

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

  • Avoid microwaving, as it can make the eggplant soggy.

  • Freeze is not recommended once assembled, but you can roast and freeze the plain eggplant slices for future use.

You can also prep components in advance—roast the eggplant and store it separately from the toppings until you’re ready to broil and serve.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients:

  • Eggplant is high in antioxidants like nasunin and offers fiber, potassium, and low calories.

  • Spinach delivers a punch of iron, vitamin C, and folate.

  • Tomato sauce and cherry tomatoes provide lycopene, which supports heart and skin health.

  • Provolone or mozzarella cheese adds protein and calcium in a modest portion.

  • The low-carb base makes it great for diabetic-friendly or weight-conscious meal plans.

At around 180 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy the essence of pizza while fueling your body with whole ingredients.

Creative Variations

While this version is delicious as written, don’t hesitate to make it your own:

  • Add protein: Try sliced grilled chicken, turkey pepperoni, or white beans for extra heartiness.

  • Switch cheeses: Goat cheese, feta, or shredded parmesan for different flavor profiles.

  • Include more veggies: Mushrooms, red onion, artichoke hearts, olives, or zucchini.

  • Fresh herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, or a sprinkle of za’atar for added aroma and taste.

  • Use pesto instead of tomato sauce for an herby, creamy variation.

This flexibility makes it a perfect clean-out-the-fridge recipe or customizable dish for entertaining guests with varied dietary preferences.

Conclusion

This Eggplant Pizza is the kind of meal that’s equal parts comforting and nourishing—bringing you all the cheesy satisfaction of pizza without the heaviness of dough. With a naturally gluten-free base, rich tomato flavor, melty cheese, and fresh veggie toppings, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, healthy lunches, or appetizer trays.

Simple to make, packed with nutrients, and endlessly adaptable, this recipe proves that you don’t need crust to have pizza night. Whether served solo or as part of a larger spread, eggplant pizzas are sure to win over even the most devoted traditional pizza fans—one cheesy, veggie-packed bite at a time.

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