A Love Letter to Simplicity & Flavor
Nothing says love like a classic, and this Millet Classic Tomato & Basil Heart Pizza is the ultimate way to celebrate both romance and wellness. With a nutrient-rich millet mix crust, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this pizza brings the warmth of homemade goodness to your Valentine’s table. It’s light, fresh, and packed with nutrients—perfect for a guilt-free indulgence with someone special.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 30-40 minutes (including dough preparation)
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 2-3 per pizza
Ingredients
For Millet Mix Crust
- ½ cup finger millet (ragi) flour
- ½ cup pearl millet (bajra) flour
- ½ cup sorghum (jowar) flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp flaxseed meal (optional, for added fiber and binding)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (for a mild sweetness)
- 1 tsp instant yeast (for slight fermentation and softness)
Instructions
For Millet Mix Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water with honey (or maple syrup) and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ragi flour, bajra flour, jowar flour, whole wheat flour, salt, baking powder, and flaxseed meal.
- Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the yeast mixture along with olive oil.
- Knead the Dough: Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for about 8-10 minutes until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
- Rest the Dough: Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes in a warm place to slightly rise. This step enhances the texture.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Shape into a Heart: Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough into a round shape. Using your hands or a knife, carefully shape it into a heart.
- Pre-Bake the Crust (Optional): Place it on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to firm up slightly before adding toppings.
Toppings & Assembly
Ingredients for the Millet Classic Tomato & Basil Pizza
- ½ cup tomato sauce (homemade or low-sodium)
- 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Assembling the Pizza
- Spread Tomato Sauce: Evenly distribute the tomato sauce over the pre-baked millet crust.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Scatter sliced cherry tomatoes for a burst of natural sweetness.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative) generously over the pizza.
- Bake to Perfection: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese turns bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Finish with Freshness: Remove from the oven and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice & Serve: Cut into pieces and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and herby flavors!
Approximate Nutritional Information (1/4 of Pizza)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Healthy Fats: 9g
Why This Pizza is a Heart-Healthy Delight
- Rich in Antioxidants – Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, which helps fight inflammation and supports heart health.
- Wholesome & Guilt-Free – A millet-based crust keeps it light yet satisfying, reducing refined flour intake.
- Boosts Metabolism – Olive oil and basil provide essential nutrients that promote digestion and well-being.
- Perfect Balance of Indulgence & Nutrition – Enjoy the rich flavors of traditional pizza without unnecessary calories or unhealthy fats.
This Millet Classic Tomato & Basil Heart Pizza is a beautiful blend of love, flavor, and nourishment—perfect for a cozy Valentine’s dinner at home. Whether you’re sharing it with a partner, a friend, or treating yourself, this pizza is a delicious way to say ‘I care.’
Stay tuned for more heart-shaped, healthy recipes to complete your romantic dinner menu!
