What are the top 10 veggie pizza toppings?

Introduction

Vegetarian pizza is a canvas for flavor, color, and nutrition. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, pursuing more plant-based meals, or simply craving a delicious change from meaty options, veggie pizzas are endlessly customizable and extremely satisfying.

But what are the absolute best toppings to pile on your next pie? We’ve scoured expert lists, pizzeria menus, and home chef favorites to bring you the top picks, pro tips, and mouthwatering combos that make every slice pop!

Best Vegetables to Put on a Pizza

Here are the top 10 most popular vegetarian pizza toppings used by pizzerias and home chefs across the US:

Other favorites: Zucchini, eggplant, arugula, corn, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and even creative additions like figs or butternut squash (especially on gourmet veggie pies).

Must-Try Vegetarian Toppings for Pizza

Looking for inspiration? Try these feature combinations:

• Spinach & Mushroom: Earthy and nutritious, finished with a garlic drizzle.
• Artichoke, Olive & Roasted Red Pepper: Tangy, briny, and full of robust flavor.
• Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella (Margherita): The classic Italian combo—fresh and elegant.
• Zucchini & Summer Squash: Light, subtly sweet, and perfect for summer pies.
• Broccoli & Sun-dried Tomato: Crunchy and slightly tangy with bursts of umami.
• Eggplant & Feta: Rich and hearty with Mediterranean flair.
• Pineapple & Jalapeño: Sweet and spicy for an adventurous bite.
  
• Corn & Red Onion: Sweetness alongside sharpness, especially tasty with goat cheese.
• Caramelized Onions & Peppers: Deep, sweet flavors roast beautifully in a hot oven.

Pro Tips for the Ultimate Veggie Pizza

• Should You Cook Veggies Before Putting Them on Pizza?
  Yes—for the best texture, flavor, and to avoid sogginess, it’s smart to sauté or roast water-rich veggies like mushrooms, peppers, onions, zucchini, eggplant, and even broccoli before topping your pizza.
  Leafy greens like spinach or arugula can go on raw since they wilt quickly during baking.
• Portion Toppings: Don’t overload your pie; spread toppings evenly so the crust cooks through and layers meld.
• Mix Raw & Cooked: Combine fresh greens or herbs after baking with pre-cooked roasted veggies for contrast.
• Try Specialty Cheeses: Feta, goat cheese, gorgonzola, and ricotta complement many veggies deliciously.

Vegetable Pizza Topping Ideas (Beyond the Basics)

• Gourmet picks: Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, asparagus, leeks, pickled onions, roasted garlic, figs, corn, and chickpeas can all shine as unique toppings.
  
• Sauce Swaps: Add pesto, ranch, balsamic glaze, or whipped ricotta bases for variety.
  
• Global Inspiration: Top with marinated paneer, spicy potatoes, or even baby corn for Indian-style delights.

FAQs About Veggie Pizza Toppings

• What are the most popular veggie pizza toppings?
  Mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, olives, spinach, and artichoke hearts lead the pack as classic favorites.
• What pizza topping is often mistaken for a vegetable?
  Mushrooms! They’re fungi, not vegetables, but are universally included in veggie topping lists. Pineapple (a fruit) is also extremely popular and sometimes debated.
• Shall I cook veggies before putting them on pizza?
  Yes, especially for mushrooms, peppers, onions, and squash—sautéing or roasting removes excess water and intensifies flavor. Leafy greens and tomatoes are fine raw.