Allergy Free Pizzas with PIZZAz (Gluten Free, Vegan)

Everyone has a slightly different view of true love. For some, it comes out of no where and is obvious at first sight. For others, it's created out of time and commitment. One thing we can all agree on? Pizza can fit the definition of true love...especially if you usually can't partake in pizza due to celiac disease or food allergies.

So, today, I'm sharing one of my love-filled recipes: gluten free and (optionally vegan) pizza that is easy to make, free of most allergens, and high in protein thanks to the buckwheat base. If that doesn't get your heart pitter-pattering, I also have three topping combos that might as well transform homemade pizza into the new red roses. 

Cause let's be honest. If a cute boy (or girl!) shows up at your door, would you rather them offer a piece of paper - or a platter of delicious pizza perfection?  

To make your own edible Valentine, begin with a long, slow walk...to the fridge and pantry for your ingredients!

Gluten Free Vegan Pizza Crust Recipe:

For the crust (this recipe - my favorite one! - is from the genius Alissa at Nourishing Meals. I've posted it below with a few minor changes, including scaling down the recipe to make 3 big, thin-crusted servings).  

1 cup and 2 TBSP of buckwheat flour (I grind my own by throwing buckwheat groats into my Nutribullet or Vitamix)
1/4 cup of tapioca flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda (much more fluffy with baking soda vs. powder!)
1/2 cups of warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
Splash of agave nectar (or maple syrup)
Splash of apple cider vinegar
Plenty of oregano, thyme and any other spices of choice

How to Make Your Gluten Free Pizza Crust:

Making the crust is simple. Begin by preheating the oven to 375 degrees F and throwing the dry ingredients in a bowl. Then microwave the water until warm and add it and the rest of the liquids to the dry ingredients. Stir until combined and transfer the dough to parchment paper. If the mixture looks crumbly, add more warm water in tablespoon increments. At this point, you're on a roll (literally) as you roll (or, as I do, mold the dough with your hands - through plastic wrap to avoid stickiness) the dough until desired thickness.

All about that base (that base)...

Romance Secret Weapon: If you're feeling extra creative, try shaping your crust into a heart like I have! It'll have your date smiling right from the start!

Once your masterpiece is shaped, pop it in the oven until the crust is partially cooked and non-sticky when touched. I usually bake mine for 15 minutes while I prep my toppings!

Topping Ideas for Your Gluten Free Pizza:

Pink Passion: 

Pesto or tomato sauce, greens, any and all veggies from the fridge, and choice of protein (fish, chicken, tofu, etc) with sliced radishes and beets arranged on top for a pop of pink! Sprinkle with (daiya) cheese and bake in the oven for another 30 minutes, or until toppings are cooked through and the crust golden. 

I <3 pizza!

You're so Sweet (Potato): 

Pesto or tomato sauce, greens, and any and all veggies from the fridge with sweet potato (pre-baked as rounds, wedges or simply microwaved and cut into slices) arranged on the top. You can add plant or animal based protein to the pizza, but I didn't think this baby needed it!

As with before, sprinkle the pizza with a final hit of (daiya) cheese and bake in the oven for another 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes get slightly crunchy on top! If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can also blend pre-cooked sweet potato and use it as a pizza "sauce!"

Potato lovin'!

Don't Squash the Feeling: 

Pesto or tomato sauce, greens, any and all veggies from the fridge, and choice of protein (fish, chicken, tofu, etc) with thick strips of yellow squash or zucchini laid on top of the pizza in the shape of a heart. 

Then, pop on some cheese and throw in the oven for another 30 minutes until the squash is soft. For extra crunch or color, you can also pan-fry or grill the squash slices before topping the pizza. 

Squash is the new sexy! ;)

Whatever your personal feelings about Valentine's Day, the holiday is dedicated to love. So, whether single or taken, why don't you show yourself some love this year with a delicious homemade pizza?

"Hot and heavy" has a whole new (and scrumptious) meaning when fresh pizza is involved!

*Also found at RunningwithSpoon's link party, GF Friday, and Pretty Pintastic!*

Do you do or eat anything special for Valentine's Day? What do you think of the holiday? Comment below!