Pizza is a fan favorite and easy meal for families. However, getting it from a restaurant means packing calories, grease and processed ingredients. How can you make a healthy version of pizza? With some creativity, the options are endless. Here are eight customization ideas for health-conscious families.
1. Choose Healthy Proteins
Start by choosing lean meats for your pizza. Typical proteins like ham, sausage and pepperoni are high in fat and can increase the calorie content. Instead, opt for chicken, turkey and leaner pork options. Chicken breast is an excellent example because it contains about 41 grams of protein per 200 calories. Alternatively, consider simple swaps like turkey pepperoni that taste similar to the original.
While meat is the center of some pizzas, you can also choose vegetarian or vegan pizza. Tofu, lentils and beans are protein-packed toppings for tasty pizzas. Nuts are terrific if you want a toasted crunch and healthy fats with your meal. Pizza fans enjoy pine nuts because they complement popular toppings like Parmesan, garlic and basil.
2. Go All Out With Veggies
Vegetables demonstrate how to satisfy an urge for pizza but keep it healthy. The options are endless, so load your favorite veggies to add volume without excess calories. Is there such a thing as too many greens on your pizza? While going overboard is possible, remember that your vegetables will shrink in the oven as they release water.
Adding veggies to your pizza means increasing the nutrient levels. Zucchini, kale and onions contribute fiber and make your dinner more filling. These foods provide vital nutrients, from vitamin A to potassium. Veggie-filled pizzas are family-friendly options, especially if you recently had a child and are breastfeeding.
3. Serve Healthy Sides
Some people like to keep their pizzas simple. For instance, classic Neapolitan pies only use dough, tomato sauce, cheese and herbs. How can you make a healthy version of pizza while sticking to family recipes? Consider what you eat on the side. Instead of breadsticks, introduce a salad bar with your favorite toppings.
Salads are a flavor-packed way to eat vegetables. When it’s pizza night, make your salad look like the pie with similar toppings. Mozzarella balls, bell peppers and black olives bring the pizza experience to your bowl before you dive into the main dish. These salads are also great for people with food allergies or different preferences.
4. Swap for a Gluten-Free Crust
A traditional pizza crust can increase the calories if it contains refined flour. The carbohydrate content without much fiber means your dinner becomes less healthy. Some restaurants also add sugar and oil to the dough. What’s a feasible alternative? Swap your traditional crust for a gluten-free one.
These pizza crusts contain no gluten, often using rice flour or almond flour instead. If someone has a gluten allergy, these pizzas increase inclusivity and make your dinner healthier. Gluten-free crusts decrease bloating and improve energy levels by helping your body absorb nutrients. Once you have a gluten-free base, ensure the pizza sauce and other toppings are also gluten-free.
5. Try a Cauliflower Crust
How can you take healthy pizzas to the next level? Experiment with a cauliflower crust. This simple alternative contains just cauliflower, cheese, eggs and seasonings. It’s easy to make at home and demonstrates how to satisfy an urge for pizza but keep it healthy. While the crust’s prep takes a while, it’s worth the effort for a more nutritious dinner.
Cauliflower crusts are typically lower in sodium and calories than your standard dough. For example, one-third of a cauliflower crust pizza has less than 100 calories and only 2 grams of carbs. It typically doesn’t contain gluten, offering another option for those with food allergies. While cauliflower crusts don’t automatically make your pizza healthy, they are an excellent start.
6. Monitor the Cheese
Cheese is among this Italian dish’s primary ingredients, so how can you make a healthy version of pizza and enjoy it? Your first step is to monitor the cheese content and how much goes on the pie. Try a lighter sprinkle to cut the calories and saturated fat content. Another option is reduced-fat cheese that doesn’t compromise the flavor.
Enjoying pizza can be more challenging if you have a lactose intolerance. While conventional cheese might not be an option, you can make simple substitutions for your stomach. For example, your pizza night could include sauce with vegetables and blue cheese or lactose-free products. Vegan pizzas add healthy twists to your pizza by omitting animal products.
7. Sprinkle Fresh Herbs
Herbs and spices are an underrated aspect of pizza. Sprinkling basil and thyme elevates your crust and creates unforgettable flavor medlies. While you can do without them, herbs and spices present opportunities to make your pizza healthier. These natural ingredients have minimal processing while adding vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Start with oregano, one of the best herbs for pizza. This ingredient protects your cells from damage and contains key antioxidants like thymol. With a rich, earthy flavor, oregano enhances pizza and brings health benefits. Basil leaves are another terrific pizza addition because they bring mild sweetness. Wait until after baking is complete to add this famous herb.
8. Get Creative With the Sauce
Tomato is the default base for pizza sauce. However, it shouldn’t be the only option in your cupboard. Homemade and store-bought sauces can achieve mouthwatering flavors without packing calories. Where should you start? Pesto is excellent for beginners, as it only contains a few ingredients. Blend pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt and Parmesan for an instant classic.
Pizza has nearly limitless topping options, so apply the same mindset to your healthier sauce. If you want a Mediterranean pizza, consider a hummus base. This decadent spread contains protein and fiber while delivering the taste of chickpeas and tahini. Tzatziki sauce is another option from the same region, and it’s fantastic for a refreshing taste.
Learning How to Make a Healthy Version of Your Favorite Pizza
Some people see pizza as junk food. However, it only takes a few substitutions to make your dinner healthier. From lean meats to alternative crusts, the customization is in your family’s hands. Experiment with different sauces and vegetables to see what works for your taste buds. The best and healthiest pizza is the one you enjoy the most.
