Pizza Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

In an effort to eat better, one of things I’ve been trying to do is eat a salad whenever I eat pizza. Easier said than done, since most pizza shops have terrible salad. So that means I either have to make my own — c’mon — or find a place that has good salad.

It’s a struggle for sure. But then I had the idea to turn the pizza into a salad. I know, I know. But, this is actually not bad. I’m not gonna lie — it’s not the same as eating a pizza. Not at all. But it does take a lot of the good flavors from a pizza and turns it into something healthier.

My salad relies on a couple key seasonings for flavor. First, an aptly named “Pizza Seasoning” from Penzey’s, which I used to roast some tomatoes. Second, one of my favorite blends, Hot Roasted Garlic, which is a delicious blend that makes pepper flakes even better. An Italian seasoning oregano, or crushed pepper flakes will work here as well.

Then, you just take a bunch of your favorite greens — in this case, Romaine, kale, and spinach — and your favorite pizza toppings. I used some vegan pepperoni cubes I got from a local restaurant, hot cherry peppers, and shredded mozzarella. But whatever you like on pizza will work here. Olives, mushrooms, green peppers, onions. The roasted tomatoes give you a sauce like flavor, while some crunchy pita chips add crunch like the best thin crust. All rounded out with a creamy, herby, delectable buttermilk ranch.

So, no. It’s not a pizza. But it’s a satisfying midweek meal that is healthy, tasty, and will keep your cravings at bay, at least until the weekend.