Every year, Americans chow down on three million pizzas.
It’s almost impossible to meet someone who doesn’t enjoy pizza. There’s nothing more perfect than the combination of melted cheese, rich sauce, and delicious crust- finished off with your favorite toppings.
Unfortunately, many people who start investing in a healthier lifestyle feel like they need to give up their favorite indulgence. Believe it or not, you don’t have to give up pizza!
Below is a guide on healthy pizza tips and tricks. We’ll show you how to maintain a balanced lifestyle while still being able to enjoy this saucy treat.
Lower Your Serving Size
Sometimes it’s not even worth fretting over the question, “Is pizza healthy?”
With some moderation and healthy sides, you can still enjoy pizza without feeling anxious and guilty. It’ll take a little extra self-discipline, but it’s possible.
If you’re used to grabbing several slices, try ordering a mini personal pizza or only having a slice or 2. Split the other slices with friends and family or pop them in the fridge for later. Some pizza restaurants even let you order by the slice!
Pair a slice of pizza with a side salad or a cup of fresh fruit. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite entree with a healthy side.
Try Different Crust Options
It’s okay to occasionally treat yourself with a warm, buttery crust. There are several healthier options you can try too!
Give cauliflower crust a try. If done correctly, you won’t notice the difference between the cauliflower crust and a typical thin crust.
Many restaurants are starting to offer cauliflower crust options. Take a peek at your local spot’s menu, or give them a call to see if the option is available. Consider Wise Guy Pizza Pie if you’re looking for pizza Boise ID.
Are you disgusted by the thought of healthy pizza crusts? Go with a simple thin crust pizza as opposed to a thick crust. Thicker crusts typically hold on to way more butter, oil, and salt.
Choose Healthy, Delicious Toppings
Find pizza restaurants offering only the freshest of veggie toppings and lean meats. By filling up on healthy toppings, you’ll be too stuffed to over-indulge.
Add red onion, green peppers, olives, banana peppers, mushrooms, or sun roasted tomatoes. We know the debate is heated, but you can also add some pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
If you enjoy meat on your pizza, avoid salty, fatty meats. Steer clear of sausage and bacon. Try grilled chicken or ham.
Make Your Own
The easiest way to control what you’re eating is to make your own meals at home! Set up a family fun night with homemade pizzas. It’s even a great at-home date idea.
Buy pizza dough at your local grocery store. Grab olive oil, sauce, and whatever you’d like to use for toppings.
You have full control of how big your pizza is, what goes on top of it, and how much of each ingredient you use. Making your own pizza allows for easy nutrition tracking.
When you order from a pizza restaurant, you never truly know what you’re putting into your body. Ask for a clear list of ingredients if you do decide to order from a local restaurant.
Have a Pizza-Inspired Night
Satisfy your tastebud cravings with a pizza-inspired night. You’re probably asking, “What do you mean by this?”
Instead of eating pizza, eat healthier foods with similar flavors. Use ingredients such as tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, onions, and prosciutto.
Take a thick slice of tomato, and top it with a slice of fresh mozzarella. Drizzle a tiny bit of sea salt and olive oil over the top, and bake it in a toaster oven until the cheese melts. Enjoy your healthy, scrumptious pizza-inspired snack.
Enjoy Pizza With Your Favorite Company
We all enjoy the feeling of relaxing in front of the television with a hot slice of pizza pie. But we also all fall guilty to rushing through each slice as we’re consumed with whatever we’re watching.
Enjoy pizza with loved ones to slow down your eating. By engaging in conversation and other activities, you’ll be less focused on chowing down. Remind yourself to be present and enjoy every bite.
Your stomach will feel fuller much quicker when taking your time. You’ll find you eat much less when enjoying the company of others.
If you’re trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, limit your alcohol consumption when hanging with friends. Many people turn to extra slices of pizza to battle the less favorable effects of alcohol.
Don’t Practice Restriction
When developing healthier lifestyles, many people tell themselves they’re not allowed to eat not-so-healthy foods. Practicing discipline is good, but restriction can lead to disordered eating patterns.
Allow yourself to have pizza a couple of times per month instead of once a week. Eat a typical serving when you do order it instead of several servings.
If you prohibit yourself from eating pizza for a long period of time, there’s a good chance you’ll overindulge when given the chance.
Healthy Pizza Tips and Tricks
There’s no perfect answer to creating healthy pizza habits. But what we can tell you is that there are a few ways you can enjoy pizza in a healthier manner!
Try a healthier cauliflower crust loaded with fresh veggies and red sauce. Pair smaller portions with fruit or side salads. Enjoy eating pizza with friends and family.
For more food and beverage tips, tricks, and trends, check out the rest of our site! We have plenty of recipes and cooking tips to share.
