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Pizza is undeniably one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, celebrated for its endless versatility and ability to cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. From classic pepperoni to gourmet toppings, the options are limitless. However, one particular rendition that has captured the hearts of many is Veggie Pizza Pockets. This fun, easy-to-make snack or meal option combines the beloved flavors of pizza with a convenient, handheld format that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Veggie Pizza Pockets

Discover the joy of making Veggie Pizza Pockets, a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite! These fun, handheld delights combine gooey cheese, fresh vegetables, and savory spices, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or a tasty snack. With easy preparation steps and the option to customize fillings, you can tailor these pizza pockets to satisfy every palate. Dive into the recipe and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that the whole family will love!

Ingredients
  

1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (use a colorful mix for a vibrant presentation)

1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)

Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s perfectly hot for baking the pockets.

    Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of approximately 1/4 inch. Utilize a large cookie cutter or a bowl (around 5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the rolled dough.

      Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, finely chopped mushrooms, halved cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

        Assemble the Pockets: Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this will hinder sealing the pockets properly.

          Seal the Pockets: Fold each dough circle over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal them, then use a fork to crimp the edges neatly for added security.

            Prepare for Baking: Arrange the filled pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of each pocket with the whisked egg to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a little olive oil over the tops as well.

              Bake: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the pockets for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.

                Serve: Once baked, remove the pockets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These veggie pizza pockets are delightful on their own, but pairing them with some marinara sauce for dipping takes them to the next level!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the pizza pockets on a colorful platter with a small bowl of marinara sauce in the center for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of elegance. Enjoy!