By Joey Skladany

Every time I’m pitched cauliflower-something by a publicist, an angel loses its wings. It’s like people who vape or get their septum pierced: We get it, it’s a thing, congratulations, but stop telling us about it every day of our lives.

Cauliflower crust definitely makes personal pizzas healthier, but it’s similar to those times when I say I’m going on a five-mile jog and am back ten minutes later. The intentions are there, though the self-sabotage is real.

So enjoy this pizza however you’d prefer. If you opt for the surprisingly delicious cauliflower crust below, that’s great! But just know that you’re probably going to top it with processed meat and cheese anyway. It’s pizza and your diet should be reserved for less amazing things, like dandelion-green salads and cayenne/ lemon juice elixirs.

PREP TIME: 25 MINUTES COOK TIME: 30 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME: 55 MINUTES YIELD: 1 (10-INCH) PIZZA

INGREDIENTS

3 cups riced cauliflower (from 1 large head cauliflower)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces)

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/3 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup freshly grated

mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Parmesan cheese, grated, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• First make your crust: Add the cauliflower rice to a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 6 to 8 minutes until tender. Uncover and allow to cool slightly.

• Once the cauliflower has cooled, transfer to a kitchen towel and wring out the excess moisture. Return to a large bowl. Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and egg. Mix to combine. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and press into a 10-inch circle. Place baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes until golden.

• Remove from the oven and top with the tomato sauce and mozzarella. Return to the oven to bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and garnish with basil, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan. Slice and serve.

JUST THE TIPS:

You can also cook your cauliflower rice in the oven. Add it to a sheet tray and bake for 15 minutes until tender. Let it cool and then wring out.