How to Make a Gluten-Free, Vegetarian Pizza

There’s something magical about walking into a home and smelling pizza baking in the oven — the aroma of tomato sauce, baked dough, melting cheese, and roasted vegetables. This gluten-free, vegetarian pizza recipe from Thrive Market captures that magic while keeping things clean and accessible. Using a gluten-free crust mix and Mediterranean toppings, it turns pizza night into something you can enjoy without compromise.

Because the recipe uses a gluten-free pizza crust mix instead of wheat flour and avoids additive-filled sauces or hidden gluten binders, it qualifies as truly gluten-free in its standard form. Every topping—from zucchini and artichoke hearts to buffalo mozzarella and pecorino—is inherently gluten-free (so long as cheeses and mixes are verified GF), making this a reliable option for gluten-sensitive households.

This pizza is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or anytime you want that “pizza night” energy without compromise. The method is straightforward: preheat your oven high for a crisp base, layer sauce and cheeses, add marinated zucchini, artichokes, and olives, then bake until golden and bubbling. Serve it with fresh basil and shaved cheese for a refined, fresh finish.

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Gluten-Free, Vegetarian Pizza

Recipe Details

Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Gluten-Free, Vegetarian Pizza Ingredients

• 1 package gluten-free pizza crust mix
• 1 zucchini, very thinly sliced into rounds
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pinch freshly ground pepper
• 1 cup roasted garlic tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup buffalo mozzarella, cut into rounds
• 1/4 cup pecorino romano or toscana, cut into thin slices
• 1/3 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained
• Several green olives
• Shaved parmesan and fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make Your Pizza

1. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees and place a baking sheet in the oven to heat.
2. Make the gluten-free pizza crust according to the package instructions. Set aside.
3. Place the zucchini, lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl and toss to combine. Set aside to marinate.
4. Spread the pizza crust with the sauce and top with mozzarella and pecorino cheeses. Bake for 5 minutes.
5. Drain the zucchini, and add it to the pizza along with artichoke hearts and olives.
6. Bake until the crust is golden, about 5 to 10 minutes, or according to the package’s instructions.
7. Remove from oven and top with shaved parmesan and basil leaves to serve.

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Gluten-Free, Vegetarian Pizza Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 6 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1/6 of pizza
Calories	≈ 350 kcal
Protein	≈ 15 g
Carbs	≈ 35 g
Sugar	≈ 5 g
Fiber	≈ 3 g
Fat	≈ 17 g

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Pizza Variations & Tips

• Alternate crust bases: Use cauliflower crust, almond-flour crust, or store-bought gluten-free flatbreads if you prefer a different texture.
• Cheese changes: Swap buffalo mozzarella or pecorino with dairy-free or plant-based options to make it vegan-friendly.
• Veggie mix-ins: Add roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or sautéed spinach along with the zucchini for more variety.
• Spice uplift: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of za’atar to the sauce or vegetables for extra flavor edge.
• Preheat tip: Let your baking sheet or pizza stone heat fully before placing the crust to help get a crisp bottom.
• Drain zucchini first: After marinating, pat zucchini dry to avoid sogginess when baking.
• Finish fresh: Top with basil, arugula, or fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil once out of the oven to brighten the flavors.

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Best Pizza Pairings

• Green salad with lemon vinaigrette: Crisp greens and acid cut through the richness of cheese and crust.
• Roasted vegetables: Eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the pizza’s Mediterranean palette.
• Olive tapenade or herbed spread: Use on the side or swirl lightly for extra flavor contrast.
• Gluten-free garlic knots or breadsticks: For a more indulgent spread while staying on diet track.
• Chilled spirits or wines: Sauvignon Blanc, rosé, or light reds pair beautifully with Mediterranean pizza flavors.

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When to Make Pizza

• Pizza night tradition: Make this your house standard for gluten-free households.
• Casual dinner gatherings: Serve a pizza platter where guests can pick and choose slices.
• Game nights or movie nights: Easy to slice, share, and enjoy in a relaxed setting.
• Weeknight dinners: Fast, satisfying, and nearly hands-off once in the oven.
• Vegetarian menus: A star entrée that complements rather than competes with plant-based mains.
• Backyard gatherings: Bring that pizza vibe outdoors — bake and serve hot in small batches on portable ovens or grills.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont