Pizza is a comfort food that can be high in calories and sodium. But it can also be a good source of vitamins and nutrients.
You can make your pizza healthier by adding a variety of veggies. Veggies are rich in fiber, which helps keep you full and may help with digestive health. Add kale, spinach, and even roasted eggplant for more nutrition.
Crust
White flour, which our bodies quickly convert to sugar, is the usual ingredient in Dresden,OH, pizza dough. Whole wheat flour can help you reduce your calorie and carb intake significantly.
Another healthy step is to ask for a smaller portion of cheese, usually full of saturated fat and calories. Instead, use a dairy-free option (like hummus) or a vegetable spread like black beans, vegetarian refried beans, or edamame spread.
Salivated lipids, salt, and nitrates are all over processed meats like sausage and pepperoni. Lean chicken, ham, or turkey pepperoni can take their place. Veggies are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or kale can boost calcium intake, vitamins A and K, potassium, and folate. Other nutritious toppings include:
- Bell peppers (which contain vitamin C).
- Tomatoes (vitamins A and C).
- Mushrooms (for B vitamins).
Skip the calorie-laden pizza dips. Instead, try a handful of veggies for a satisfying snack.
Sauce
Pizza can be part of a healthy diet, although it is not the healthiest food and is not frequently associated with being one. Dietitians claim that the preparation and ingredients are everything. It can be a nutritious snack or meal if you choose a pizza near me in Coshocton, OH, with a high-fiber crust, low-fat cheese, and loads of vegetables.
When choosing a sauce, look for tomato-based options that are low in sodium and added sugars. You can also add roasted vegetables and herbs for flavor. Try using a pesto or tahini spread instead of cheese for an extra flavor boost without the calories.
For toppings, consider arugula (a source of vitamins C and K) or leafy greens like spinach or kale (good sources of vitamins A and K). Avoid processed meats high in saturated fats, sodium, and nitrates. Choose lean meats, such as chicken or turkey breast.
Cheese
Pizza is a carb lover’s dream and can be a delicious source of calcium from cheese and disease-fighting lycopene from tomatoes. However, what you put on your pizza significantly affects its nutritional value. Processed meats can boost calories, saturated fat, and sodium, while a veggie-filled pizza with a whole wheat crust can provide fiber and B vitamins.
A veggie-rich pizza can be as simple as adding some diced bell peppers or sliced spinach, which are low in calories and a good source of vitamin C. You can add some drained, sliced artichoke hearts to your pizza for a little kick and a dose of calcium.
Other protein-rich toppings include grilled chicken, shrimp, or lean beef. Or try using a cauliflower pizza crust, which is lower in calories and healthier than traditional white pizza dough. Another way to boost protein is by spreading a black bean spread or a puree of veggies like eggplant, zucchini, mushroom, or kale on your pizza before adding the cheese.
Toppings
When it comes to toppings, pizza can go from quintessential greasy junk food to a delicious meal loaded with healthy ingredients. Swap jarred pizza sauces for homemade versions with lower sodium content, such as a quick and easy pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
Likewise, replace processed meats with lean ones like salami, chicken sausage, or turkey bacon to keep your slices on the lighter side. Finally, add vegetables to your pie. For example, a cup of raw kale has 1 g of fiber to keep you full and satisfied, and bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, with over 3 g per cup, according to Harvard Health Publishing and the USDA.
With various handcrafted pizzas, sandwiches, plates of pasta, and desserts, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your cravings.
