Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe

Experience a taste of the Mediterranean with this Socca pizza with summer squash and feta recipe. The socca, a type of thin, unleavened pancake made from chickpea flour, serves as the pizza crust and provides a rich, nutty flavor. Topped with fresh summer squash, tangy feta, and a variety of other toppings, this pizza is a delightful break from the ordinary.

Photos of Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe

The key ingredient in this recipe that may not be found in all households is chickpea flour. It's a gluten-free flour packed with protein and fiber used in many Mediterranean dishes. It might not be available in all local grocery stores, but it can be easily found in health food stores, Middle Eastern grocery stores or online. Another ingredient to look out for would be kalamata olives, which are a type of olive named after the city of Kalamata in Greece and are easily identifiable by their dark purple color.

Ingredients for Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta

Chickpea flour: This is used to create the socca crust. It has a slightly nutty flavor and is packed with protein.

Olive oil: Used in both the crust mixture and as a topping, it adds a distinct flavor and helps to crisp up the crust.

Garlic: Adds a hint of spice to the crust.

Sea Salt: Used to season the crust.

Mozzarella: A mild, creamy cheese that melts well on the pizza.

Feta: A tangy, crumbly cheese that adds a Greek touch to the pizza.

Zucchini: A type of summer squash that's thinly sliced and adds freshness to the pizza.

Kalamata Olives: These olives add a tangy, salty flavor to the pizza.

Sun-dried tomatoes: They offer a sharp taste that enhances the flavor of the pizza.

Fresh thyme: Used as a finishing touch to add a hint of earthiness.

One reader, Gaston Carrera says:

This socca pizza recipe is a game-changer! The chickpea crust is so flavorful and the combination of summer squash and feta is simply divine. It's a perfect blend of savory and fresh flavors. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful and unique pizza experience.

Gaston Carrera

Techniques Required for Making Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta

How to prepare socca pizza crust: Mix chickpea flour, water, olive oil, garlic, and salt in a bowl and let it rest for 1 hour.
How to cook socca pizza crust: Preheat a skillet in the oven, pour in olive oil, then the chickpea batter, and cook under the broiler for 5-8 minutes until set and browned.
How to assemble socca pizza: Spread olive oil on the socca, top with mozzarella, squash, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta, then bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes.
How to serve socca pizza: Sprinkle fresh thyme on top, let it cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice into 4 pieces and serve.

How To Make Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta

Socca pizza is a French-inspired dish that uses a chickpea-based pancake as its crust. It is then topped with fresh summer vegetables for a bright meal.

Preparation: 1 hour 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Socca Pizza Crust:

1cupchickpea flour
1cupwater
¼cupolive oil,divided
1-2clovesgarlic,pressed or minced
¼tspsea salt

For Pizza Toppings:

½cupmozzarella,shredded
¼cupfeta,crumbled
1small zucchini,and/or yellow squash
5pitted kalamata olives,sliced in half lengthwise
small sun-dried tomatoes,handful, either oil packed or Trader Joe’s dried kind
1small sprig fresh thyme,optional

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, garlic and salt. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
Turn on the broiler with a rack positioned 8 inches from heat. Place a 10-inch ovenproof skillet (preferably cast iron) in the oven to preheat.
Once the skillet is hot, carefully remove it from the oven. Pour in 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl the pan around so the oil is evenly distributed.
Pour in the chickpea batter and return the skillet to the broiler. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until the socca is set and the edges are browning and pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Remove from oven, turn off broiler and turn oven to 425 degrees F.
Spread the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil on top of the socca. Top the socca with mozzarella, then distribute the ribboned/julienned squash on top. Sprinkle olives and sun-dried tomatoes on top, then sprinkle feta over the pizza.
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is browning and the socca is crisp.
Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh thyme on top. Let the pizza cool for 2 to 3 minutes before slicing into 4 pieces and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 572.80kcal
Fat: 41.40g
Saturated Fat: 10.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.74g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.67g
Carbohydrates: 31.08g
Fiber: 6.00g
Sugar: 7.54g
Protein: 20.11g
Cholesterol: 38.81mg
Sodium: 681.27mg
Calcium: 282.26mg
Potassium: 589.88mg
Iron: 3.34mg
Vitamin A: 84.66µg
Vitamin C: 12.90mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Socca Pizza Crust

When making the socca pizza crust, it's important to let the chickpea flour batter rest at room temperature for an hour. This allows the flour to fully absorb the water, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive batter. Additionally, preheating the skillet before adding the batter ensures that the crust starts cooking immediately, creating a crispier texture. For the toppings, thinly slicing or julienning the zucchini allows it to cook evenly and quickly. Lastly, adding the feta cheese last helps it retain its texture and prevents it from melting too much.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pizza Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the socca batter the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-sliced ingredients: Opt for pre-sliced or pre-chopped vegetables and cheese to cut down on prep time.

Multi-task: While the socca is cooking, prepare the toppings to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in a good skillet: A high-quality skillet will distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking, making the cooking process smoother.

Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, ensure that all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Prep the toppings in advance: Slice the zucchini, pit the olives, and prepare the sun-dried tomatoes ahead of time to save time during assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe

chickpea flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for chickpea flour, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, offering a similar mild flavor and texture.
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone: Provolone can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, providing a similar mild and creamy flavor.
kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives can be used as a substitute for kalamata olives, offering a milder flavor and similar texture.
sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes, providing a juicy and slightly different flavor profile.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme, but use it sparingly as it is more potent in flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Socca Pizza

bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the socca pizza crust.
whisk: A whisk is needed to thoroughly combine the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, garlic, and salt for the socca pizza crust.
skillet: An ovenproof skillet, preferably cast iron, is used to cook the socca pizza crust and toppings under the broiler and in the oven.
oven: The oven is used to cook the socca pizza crust and toppings, providing the necessary heat for baking and broiling.
broiler: The broiler function in the oven is used to cook the socca pizza crust and toppings, providing direct heat from above.
knife: A knife is necessary for slicing the zucchini and sun-dried tomatoes for the pizza toppings.
cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing and preparing the zucchini and sun-dried tomatoes.
measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to accurately measure the chickpea flour, water, and olive oil for the socca pizza crust.
measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure out the sea salt and other smaller quantities of ingredients for the socca pizza crust.
spatula: A spatula is helpful for flipping and removing the cooked socca pizza crust from the skillet.
grater: A grater can be used to grate the mozzarella and feta cheese for the pizza toppings.
oven mitts: Oven mitts are essential for safely handling the hot skillet and removing it from the oven.
timer: A timer can be used to keep track of the cooking time for the socca pizza crust and toppings.

Storing and Freezing Socca Pizza for Later

Let the socca pizza cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. The socca pizza will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the socca pizza:
- Wrap the individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen socca pizza will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated socca pizza, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For frozen socca pizza, you can either:
- Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as directed above.
- Place the frozen slices directly on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Note that the texture of the vegetables and cheese may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Socca Pizza

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover socca pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the socca crust while ensuring the toppings are heated through.
For a quicker reheat, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the socca pizza slice directly on the rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent burning.
If you prefer a softer crust, microwave the leftover socca pizza. Place the slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until the toppings are warm and the cheese is melted. The microwave method will result in a softer crust compared to the oven or toaster oven methods.
For a stovetop reheat, place the socca pizza slice in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. This method will help crisp up the bottom of the crust while gently warming the toppings.
If you have a grill, you can also reheat your socca pizza for a unique, smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the pizza slice directly on the grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. Be careful not to burn the zucchini or feta toppings.

Interesting Fact About Socca Pizza

The socca pizza with summer squash and feta recipe is a great way to enjoy a gluten-free and nutritious pizza alternative. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. Socca, a traditional chickpea flour-based flatbread from the south of France, is not only delicious but also high in protein and fiber. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you're a fan of Mediterranean flavors or looking for a new way to enjoy pizza, this socca pizza is a must-try.

Is Making Socca Pizza at Home Cost-Effective?

The socca pizza with summer squash and feta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, chickpea flour, is affordable and versatile. The addition of zucchini and olives adds nutritional value without breaking the bank. The use of feta and mozzarella may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense for a household of 4 people is reasonable. This flavorful dish rates a solid 8 for taste and affordability, making it a great option for a budget-friendly and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20.

Is This Pizza Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The socca pizza with summer squash and feta recipe is a relatively healthy option compared to traditional pizza. Here's why:

Chickpea flour, the main ingredient in the socca crust, is a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, providing protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
The toppings include zucchini, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, which offer additional nutrients and flavor without overloading the pizza with high-calorie ingredients.
The recipe uses a moderate amount of cheese, balancing taste and health considerations.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:

The olive oil content is relatively high, contributing to the overall calorie count. Reducing the amount of oil used in the recipe could make it even healthier.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this socca pizza, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate more vegetables as toppings, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for low-fat mozzarella or reduce the amount of cheese used to lower the saturated fat content
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like basil or oregano, to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or oil
Serve the pizza with a side salad to boost the overall vegetable intake and create a well-rounded meal

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Socca Pizza Recipe

This socca pizza with summer squash and feta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chickpea crust adds a nutty and hearty base, while the summer squash and feta bring a light and fresh element to the dish. The use of olives and sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of umami, and the fresh thyme provides a fragrant finish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to showcase seasonal produce and create a unique and delicious pizza experience.

Enhance Your Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with a sticky honey balsamic sauce for a delicious side dish.

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Juicy grilled peaches paired with peppery arugula and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa cooked with fresh herbs and a zesty lemon flavor for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Socca Pizza

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of colorful bell peppers for a satisfying meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: A refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken, this recipe features a homemade mango salsa that pairs perfectly with grilled or baked chicken breasts.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: A comforting and velvety soup made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a touch of cream for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops: Juicy and tender pork chops are marinated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection for a flavorful and easy dinner option.

Berry Crisp: A delightful dessert that showcases the sweetness of fresh berries, topped with a crispy oat and almond crumble for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Socca Pizza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining or as a pre-dinner snack.

Crispy Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer with a twist by topping crispy baguette slices with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings, such as diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. These bruschetta bites are sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with different textures, creates a delightful treat that is perfect for a summer day.

Why trust this Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe:

This socca pizza recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, incorporating the gluten-free and protein-rich chickpea flour for a unique and flavorful crust. The combination of mozzarella and feta cheeses provides a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of summer squash and kalamata olives infuses the dish with fresh, vibrant flavors. The use of fresh thyme adds a fragrant and aromatic touch, enhancing the overall sensory experience. With a carefully crafted blend of ingredients and a well-structured cooking process, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on the Socca Pizza with Summer Squash and Feta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you've tried this unique pizza variation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of flour for the socca pizza crust?

Yes, you can use different types of flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary. Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour, gives the socca its unique taste and texture, but feel free to experiment with other flours if you prefer.

Can I make the socca pizza crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the socca pizza crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to use it, simply reheat it in the oven before adding your toppings.

Can I add other vegetables to the pizza?

Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or caramelized onions would all be delicious additions to the pizza.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the mozzarella and feta cheese. You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply load up on flavorful vegetables for a delicious vegan version.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, you can use dried thyme instead of fresh. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you'll need less. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.