Hearty Vegetarian Tamale Pizza
This Hearty Vegetarian Tamale Pizza reimagines a beloved classic with a delightful twist, inspired by the traditional flavors of tamales. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish can be assembled in under half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a vibrant blend of chili beans, sweet corn, and fresh vegetables, every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you make your own pizza crust or use a store-bought option, this pizza is a satisfying meal that both vegetarians and meat lovers will enjoy. Top it off with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of freshness!
N/A
Servings
400
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chili beans
15 ounces (drained (do not rinse))
Canned diced green chiles
2 tablespoons
Prepared pizza crust
12 inches
Corn
7 ounces (drained)
Reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Green onions
3 (sliced)
Roma tomatoes
2 (chopped)
Fresh cilantro
to taste (for garnish (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
In a small bowl, drain the canned chili beans and mash them with a fork or pastry blender until slightly smooth.
3
Incorporate the diced green chiles into the mashed beans and mix well.
4
Roll out or place your prepared pizza crust on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5
Spread the bean and chile mixture evenly across the crust, leaving about 1/4 inch at the edges.
6
Evenly distribute the drained corn over the bean mixture.
7
Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese generously on top, followed by sliced green onions and chopped roma tomatoes.
8
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
9
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. If desired, sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
60g
Carbs
15g
Protein
7g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Vegetarian Tamale Pizza?
Hearty Vegetarian Tamale Pizza is a creative dish that combines the traditional flavors of tamales—like chili beans, corn, and green chiles—with a convenient pizza crust.
Is this pizza recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely meat-free and designed specifically as a hearty vegetarian meal.
How long does it take to prepare and bake this pizza?
The entire process, including assembly and baking, can be completed in under 30 minutes.
What is the main protein source in this vegetarian pizza?
The primary sources of protein are the chili beans and the shredded cheddar cheese.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving of this pizza contains approximately 400 calories.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a 12-inch prepared store-bought pizza crust to make the assembly even faster.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
You should preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius.
How long does the pizza need to bake?
The pizza should bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden.
Do I need to rinse the chili beans?
No, you should drain the canned chili beans but do not rinse them, as the sauce adds flavor to the base.
What type of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one cup of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
Can I use regular cheddar cheese instead of reduced-fat?
Yes, regular cheddar cheese can be used, though it will slightly increase the fat content.
What makes the base of the pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce?
The base is made from a mixture of mashed chili beans and diced green chiles.
Is corn used in this recipe?
Yes, 7 ounces of drained canned corn are distributed evenly over the bean mixture.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe recommends using two chopped roma tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
How many green onions do I need?
You will need three green onions, which should be sliced and used as a topping.
Is cilantro necessary for this recipe?
Fresh cilantro is an optional garnish that provides a burst of freshness but can be omitted if preferred.
Can I add meat to this pizza?
While this is a vegetarian recipe, you could easily add cooked ground beef or chorizo if you prefer a meat option.
Why is it called 'Tamale' pizza?
It earns its name by using ingredients typically found in tamales, such as corn, beans, and chiles.
How much fiber does this pizza contain?
This pizza is quite fiber-rich, providing 7 grams of fiber per serving.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
Yes, its mild flavors and pizza format make it a popular choice for families and children.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the standard pizza crust for your favorite gluten-free crust alternative.
What size pizza crust is required?
A standard 12-inch prepared pizza crust is the intended size for these topping amounts.
Do I need a pizza stone to bake this?
No, a simple baking sheet lined with parchment paper works perfectly for this recipe.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 15 grams of protein per serving in this vegetarian pizza.
What is the total fat content?
The pizza contains 10 grams of fat per serving.
Are the canned green chiles spicy?
Canned diced green chiles are generally mild, offering a savory flavor rather than high heat.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, frozen corn can be used as long as it is thawed and thoroughly drained before topping the pizza.
How do I prepare the beans for the crust?
Drain the beans and mash them with a fork or pastry blender until they reach a slightly smooth consistency.
Can I prepare the toppings ahead of time?
Yes, you can mash the beans and chop the vegetables in advance to speed up assembly even further.
Is this pizza considered a healthy meal?
Yes, with 7g of fiber, 15g of protein, and plenty of vegetables, it is a nutritious and balanced meal option.