Pull out the red and white checkered tablecloth, get out the napkins, and pop in your favorite movie, it’s everyone’s favorite party food, pizza! Pizza is a staple of get togethers, celebrations, lazy Sundays and mid-week easy meals. Though it sometimes gets a bad rep for large amounts of sodium and carbs, but there are plenty of ways to make this favorite meal healthier for every type of eater. And remember, everything is okay in moderation!
1. Pie size matters.
Use your best judgement when ordering pizza for a group. Do you know the pizza place has large slices that people seem to never finish? Bigger pizzas have bigger slices, which in most cases means more calories. Sometimes it’s easier to order less pizza and stock up on healthy sides and snacks to combat. Ordering less pizza also means no tempting leftovers or midnight snacks.
2. Thick or thin?
Chicago style, New York Style, Detroit-style oh my! When it comes to pizza, they are all prepared differently. One way to cut back on calories and carbs is to be conscious of the type of pizza you are eating. It’s no shocker that thin crust pizza packs less carbs than stuffed or deep dish crust. If you’re looking for an easy way to cut some calories, thin crust may be a better option than that mile high thick or deep dish. Plus, who doesn’t love a crispy, crunchy crust?
3. Change up the crust.
Most pizza coinsures will argue the crust is the best part of the pizza, and in recent years alternative pizza crust options have become increasingly popular, especially for our gluten-free or gluten-sensitive friends. Instead of the carb heavy crust, try out any of the following crust options. Who knows, the new crust may be your new favorite.
- Cauliflower crust – Pack it with veggies! Cauliflower and other veggies are an easy substitute for starches. This crust is less calories and can help you reach your vegetable intake for the day!
- Chickpea crust – You can find these in your grocery store and they come in a 9” size round. Perfect for a personal pizza.
- Whole wheat pita crust – This is perfect for your at home pizza creations. The whole wheat pizza doesn’t need any prep and is packed with fiber, all you need is sauce and toppings.
- Whole wheat crust – Some pizza restaurants offer whole wheat crust instead of bleached flour. This is another way to enjoy the crust, but have it have just a few additional benefits.
- Zucchini boats – Zucchini boats are the perfect way to be carb conscious while also fitting in your daily dose of vegetables.
4. Be intentional with toppings.
What is a pizza without toppings? When it comes to toppings, veggies are the easiest way to pack flavor and nutrition to your pizza. From red and green peppers, onions, black olives, arugula, spinach, artichokes and squash. There are tons of ways to mix and match veggies for the perfect pie. Healthy non-veggie options can include chicken, seafood or extra-lean meat.
5. Pair with a healthy side.
Pizza can certainly be a meal in itself, but you can also pair your pizza with nutritious options that allow you to get the best of both worlds. Try a nice garden salad, avocado and corn salad, fruit kebobs, and other delicious and light dishes to accompany your pizza.
No matter your pizza size, shape, toppings or crust, enjoy this classic meal the way you want! With these helpful tips, you can have pizza night a little more often without guilt.
